lit terms english

Exposition

The beginning of the plot where the author introduces the reader to characters, setting, narrator, and point of view.

Rising action

The second part of a plot diagram where events begin and build suspense to create conflict.

Climax

The third part of a plot diagram; the turning point in the story.

Falling action

The fourth part of a plot diagram with no new events or plot points, occurring after the crisis and before the resolution.

Resolution/Denouement

The fifth part of a plot diagram where conflict is resolved and the story concludes.

Foreshadowing

A hint of things to come in the plot.

Internal conflict

A character struggling with his or her own opposing desires, beliefs, or needs (man vs. self).

External conflict

A character struggling against an outside force (man vs. man).

Mood/atmosphere

The feeling the reader gets from a piece of literature.

Point of view

The perspective from which a story is told.

First person point of view

The narrator is the one living the action of the story.

Third person omniscient

The narrator knows everything about all the characters.

Third person limited

The narrator only sees the thoughts and feelings of one person.

Symbolism

A symbol is an object, person, or place that means more than what it actually is.

Setting

The time and place in which a story occurs.