Elements of fiction

Fiction

Literature in prose form (short stories, novels) describing imaginary events and people.

Genre Equation

Character + Story (Action) + Plot + Setting.

Character

A person in a story; may be a protagonist (main) or antagonist (opponent).

Protagonist

The main or central character of the story.

Antagonist

The opposing or rival character.

Point of View

Who tells the story; determines how the story is seen or felt.

First Person POV

Narrator is part of the story using “I/We.”

Major Character POV

Main character tells the story.

Minor Character POV

Side character tells the story.

Bystander POV

Observer who’s not deeply involved.

Second Person POV

Narrator speaks directly to the reader using “You.”

Third Person POV

Narrator uses “He/She/They.”

Limited Omniscient POV

Shows thoughts and feelings of one character.

Omniscient POV

Knows everything about all characters and events.

Plot

Series of events that make up a story.

Linear Plot

Events occur in order from beginning to end.

Episodic/Modular Plot

Story told in separate episodes or sections, not always in order.

Exposition

Introduces characters, setting, and situation.

Rising Action

Conflicts or problems start to appear.

Climax

The story’s most exciting or tense moment.

Falling Action

Events that follow the climax.

Resolution/Denouement

Ending where conflicts are resolved.

Setting

The time, place, and environment of the story.

Time and Place

When and where the story happens.

Culture and Society

Beliefs, politics, and customs shaping the characters.

Mood/Atmosphere

The story’s emotional tone or feeling.

Irony

The opposite of what is expected or said.

Verbal Irony

Saying the opposite of what you mean.

Situational Irony

An unexpected outcome occurs.

Dramatic Irony

The audience knows something the character doesn’t.

Techniques and Literary Devices

Tools that enhance storytelling and meaning.

Mood

The feeling the story gives to readers.

Tone

The author’s attitude toward the subject.

Foreshadowing

Hints or clues about what may happen later.

Symbolism

An object or image represents a deeper meaning.

Motif

A recurring symbol or idea that supports the theme.