Structural devices

AS English

Chronological Order

Events are presented in the order they happened.

Flashback

The narrative jumps back to a past event.

Flashforward

The narrative jumps ahead to a future event.

Cyclical Structure

The text ends where it began, creating a sense of completeness.

Zoom In/Out

The narrative shifts between detailed focus and broader scenes.

Shift in Focus

Attention moves from one aspect of the story to another.

Contrast

Two opposing elements are presented to highlight differences.

Repetition

Words, phrases, or structures are repeated for emphasis.

Withholding Information

Deliberately leaving out details to build suspense.

Cliffhanger

The story ends with unresolved tension, keeping the audience in suspense.

Foreshadowing

Hints are given about events that will occur later.

Perspective Shift

The point of view or narrator changes.

Dialogue

Conversation between characters is used to reveal traits or move the plot.

Pace

The speed at which the story moves

Juxtaposition

Placing two contrasting elements side by side for dramatic effect.

Circular Narrative

The story ends where it began, often reinforcing a theme.

Frame Narrative

A story within a story is used to provide context or commentary.

Parallel Narrative

Two or more storylines unfold simultaneously.

Episodic Structure

The narrative is told through loosely connected episodes or scenes.

Non-linear Structure

Events are presented out of chronological order.

Analepsis

A technical term for a flashback.

Prolepsis

A technical term for a flashforward.

Exposition

Background information is introduced to provide context.

Climax

The story reaches its most intense or dramatic point.

Resolution

Conflicts or storylines are brought to a close.