Elements of Fiction

Elements of FictionThe ElementsPlotCharactersSettingThemePoint of View

PlotSequence of eventsExpositionRising ActionClimaxFalling ActionResolution

Contains conflictsExternal ConflictPerson vs. PersonPerson vs. SocietyPerson vs. NatureInternal ConflictPerson vs. Self

CharactersProtagonistAntagonist

Staticdo not change during the storyDynamicundergo a change due to an event happening to themFlatstereotypical; shallow; one or two personality traits; not fully developedRoundrealistic; have many different personality traits; fully developed

CharactersStock: instantly recognizable (stereotype)Geek, policeman, stern librarianOften a flat character

Archetype: ideal, universally recognized model personality (epitome)Superhero, villan, etcCan be protagonist OR antagonistSymbolizes a deeper, universal meaningOn a sheet of paper.Put these characters into the correct group of either stock character or archetype:

JockSpoiled rich kidWise old manAvengerDitzy girlMother figureGeekTricksterSettingTime

Place

When and WhereThemeWhat is theme?

NOT a summary of events!!Point of ViewWho is telling the story?

How do we know what happens?Does the character simply tell us?1st person3rd Omniscient: know almost everything3rd Limited: limited is key wordThe Gift of the MagiJournal:What is something you have that does not have a big $ value but that means a lot to you?

Would you ever give up that item? In what situations?

IronyVerbal

Dramatic

Situational

Be looking for irony in the story!!!Why use irony?Dramatic=suspensefulVerbal or Situational=Humorous

Helps to communicate the theme to the reader