Elements of Fiction: Plot

Definition The series of events that give a story its meaning and effect. If asked to give a summary of the story, the plot is what you are summarizing.

Set in Motion… The plot is set in motion by some type of conflict. There are 2 types of conflict: Internal a character struggles within himself/tries to come to terms with a decision Externala struggle between a character and another character or outside force

Conflict The conflict might be: a personal dilemma a pressing desire a threatening enemy a burdensome duty the loss of something important. In most stories, a series of character choices leads ultimately to a resolution of the problem.

Parts of the Plot The plot of a story is divided into 4 parts: Exposition Rising Action Climax Falling Action/Resolution

Exposition This is the beginning of the story. It presents background information such as introducing characters, telling about the setting, mentioning the conflict, etc. Generally the first chapter or 2 of a novel

Rising Action The character experiences conflict through a series of plot complications that entangle him or her more deeply in the problem/conflict. Complications: Plot events that plunge the protagonist further into conflict

Climax The plot's most dramatic and revealing moment, usually the turning point of the story. This is where the characters are directly involved in addressing the conflict of the story.

Falling Action/Resolution The conflict is resolved. This leads quickly to the story’s end/resolution. Things have generally changed at the end of a story, either in the character or the situation; drama subsides, and a new status quo is achieved.