Interpersonal & Intrapersonal Communication and “The Witch” Plot Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key communication terms, conflict types, cultural context, narrative structure, and character concepts from the lecture notes on “The Witch.”

Interpersonal Communication

Communication that occurs between two or more people (e.g., talking to a friend, working in a group).

Intrapersonal Communication

Communication that occurs within one’s own mind (e.g., self-reflection, journaling, inner dialogue).

Internal Conflict (Man vs. Self)

A struggle taking place within a character’s mind, such as the boy’s fear, curiosity, and guilt.

External Conflict (Man vs. Society)

A character’s struggle against social forces or norms, like Minggay’s clash with fearful villagers.

Superstitious Rural Culture

A community setting where beliefs in the supernatural drive fear and gossip, influencing characters’ actions.

Story Within a Story (Frame Narrative)

A narrative technique where one story is embedded inside another, as the boy’s memory frames rumors about Minggay.

Exposition

The plot stage introducing setting and characters; the boy recalls his superstitious village and Minggay Awok.

Rising Action

Events that build tension leading to the climax; the boy’s errand and frightening rumors about Minggay.

Climax

The turning point of greatest intensity; the boy meets Minggay and discovers she is kind, not evil.

Falling Action

Events following the climax that begin resolving conflicts; the boy travels home, no longer afraid.

Denouement (Resolution)

The final plot stage where conflicts resolve and themes clarify; the boy reflects on the power of fear and gossip.

Minggay Awok

A village woman labeled a witch; central figure in the story’s conflict between rumor and reality.

Sympathy (Literary Analysis)

Reader’s emotional alignment with a character; often directed toward Minggay due to her unjust isolation.