Subplots

A subplot’s job is to make a novel seem complex to the reader

A good subplot fleshes out a story (makes it fuller) in a number of ways…

In plot-driven stories, a subplot often shows the theme because the main character may be too busy with action in the “A” story to get into big life problems

In character-driven stories, a subplot may carry the action in the story

Subplots are all about contrast –not recycling the events of plot “A”

- The main plot line is often referred to as the “A” story. - The “B” story is the secondary plot or subplot. - There can also be a “C” story, or tertiary subplot. Any more distracts readers from the “A” plotline and confuses the story.

Each subplot is structured as a complete story Each subplot is structured as a complete story. Wherever a subplot comes from, it is structured like the main plot with a beginning, middle, and end.

A subplot’s scenes can occur anywhere in a story

- Subplots are not independently of each other or the main plot, each subplot connects to the “A” story and weaves in and out of it. - Good subplots are so important to the story, that to take them out of the main plot wouldn’t be the same

As interconnected as subplots are with the main plot, their impact is not felt until the end….

The Hunger Games Katniss and Peeta

Harry Potter Harry and Ginny Hermione and Ron

The Lightning Thief Percy and Annabeth