Elements of a Story

Story Basics Plot Setting Point of View Character Conflict Theme Motif

Plot A sequence of events that tell a story Builds towards a climax or turning point

Setting The time and place of the story Creates a background for the action It can interact with and affect the characters Affects the atmosphere or mood of the story

Point of View 1st Person = I & me 2nd Person = you (very rare) I was standing in the meadow when I heard a bird. 2nd Person = you (very rare) You are sitting in class when you hear a bird. 3rd Person Omniscient = an all-knowing narrator who is outside the events of the story and tells the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters 3rd Person Limited = a narrator who is outside the events of the story but only tells the thoughts and feelings of one character

Characters Effective main characters are dynamic and well-rounded Have multiple traits or qualities Struggle with conflicting motivation Change by the end of the story Minor characters are often static and flat Flat: one trait or quality Static: does not change

Characterization Authors develop characters through characterization by using: Imagery: creates a picture of characters and their surroundings The gangly boy leaned against the giant oak tree. Speech: reveals the nature of a person “Good afternoon, sir. How are you today?” Thoughts: shows how the character processes information Simone kept thinking, I feel like I’ve been here before. Actions: actions speak stronger than words (show, don’t tell) Gerald feverishly chased after the dog dragging his gym shorts.

Types of Characterization Direct Indirect Narrator makes direct statements about a character’s personality. Tells the reader Example: Taylor was an incredibly determined girl who would let nothing stop her. Reader learns what characters are like by analyzing what they do and say. Shows the reader Example: Even though Taylor had overslept, she quickly comber her hair and rushed out the door thinking, I can’t be late for the first day of practice.

Conflict A struggle between two opposing forces Man vs. Man; Man vs. Nature; Man vs. Society; Man vs. Fate Can be an internal or external struggle Internal: takes place in the mind; struggle to make a decision or overcome fears External: takes place between a character and an outside force

Theme Underlying meaning or main idea of a written work Deduced through the action of a story Helps the audience make realizations about the nature of the world Examples: coming of age, love conquers all, crime does not pay, sacrifices bring rewards, importance of family, etc.

Motifs & Symbols Motifs Symbol Reoccurring object or idea that helps develop the theme of a story Example from The Maze Runner: WICKED is good Change An object that stands for a larger meaning Common symbols are: Colors Water/Fire Night/Day Light/Dark