British Lit Short Story terms 11/04/25

Exposition

Background information presented in a story, where the setting and characters are introduced

Conflict

The main problem or struggle in a story

Rising Action

All the events that grow the conflict and lead to the climax in a story

Climax

The highest point of action in a story, when the conflict must be dealt with

Falling Action

All the events that happen after the climax in a story; much shorter than the rising action

Resolution

The end of a story; the outcome of dealing with the conflict

Protagonist

Main character in a story

Antangonist

The main character or force in conflict with the Protagonist.

Direct Characterization

An author revealing a character by telling the reader what the character is like.

Indirect Characterization

An author revealing a character through their own actions, words, and thoughts; what other characters say or think about the character, and how they react to the character.