Types of Plot and Story Structure

Vocabulary flashcards covering the definition of plot, four plot types (Linear, Non-Linear, Episodic, and Traditional), non-linear literary techniques, and the five components of Freytag's Story Pyramid.

Plot

The series or sequence of events that give a story its meaning and effect, built around events that take place within a definite period.

Linear Plot

A plot structure consisting of events that have a clear beginning, middle, and end, unfolding in chronological order to make things easier to remember, especially for children.

Non-Linear Plot

A plot in which events are not presented in chronological order, and may move backward or forward in time using flashbacks, flash-forwards, memories, or revealing events out of sequence.

Flashback

A literary technique in a non-linear plot that goes back to an earlier event.

Flash-forward

A literary technique in a non-linear plot that shows an event that will happen later.

Foreshadowing

A literary technique in a non-linear plot that gives clues about something that will happen later.

Episodic Plot

Also called a Modular Plot, a plot consisting of a series of loosely connected episodes or incidents where each episode can often stand alone, but is connected by a common character, setting, or theme.

Modular Plot

Another term for an Episodic Plot, which consists of a series of loosely connected episodes or incidents.

Traditional Plot

A structured pattern of storytelling composed of five essential parts: Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution/Denouement.

Freytag's Pyramid

Another name for the Traditional Plot structure, developed by German novelist Gustav Freytag.

Gustav Freytag

The German novelist who developed Freytag's Pyramid (Traditional Plot).

Exposition

The first part of a traditional plot that introduces the characters, setting, and background information.

Rising Action

The second part of a traditional plot consisting of a series of events that build conflict and increase suspense.

Climax

The third part of a traditional plot representing the highest point of tension where the main conflict reaches its peak.

Falling Action

The fourth part of a traditional plot featuring events that occur after the climax and begin resolving the conflict.

Resolution (Denouement)

The final part of a traditional plot in which the conflict is resolved, and the story concludes.