Narrative Elements Notes

Plot

The sequence of events that occur through a work to produce a coherent narrative or story.

Characterization

The ways individual characters are represented by the narrator/author of the text, both directly and indirectly.

Dialogue

Spoken exchanges between characters in a dramatic or literary work, usually between two or more speakers.

Setting

The time and geographic location within a narrative, either nonfiction or fiction.

Point of View

The perspective a text takes when presenting its plot/narrative.

Theme

An author’s comment on an aspect of the human experience, typically expressed in a complete thought.

Foreshadowing

When the author gives a hint/clue of what is to come later in the story.

Conflict

The difference drives of the characters or forces involved, either internal or external.

Irony

When the audience or reader is aware of something important, of which the characters are not.

Symbolism

An object or element incorporated into a narrative to represent another concept or concern.