Literary Analysis Skill plot Literary Analysis Skill

What is plot? A plot is the sequence of related events in a story. A typical plot concerns a conflict ( a struggle between opposing forces) and follows a pattern. A plot conflict can be internal or external. An external conflict is one between a character and an outside influence: a struggle between two characters, between a character and nature, or between a character and fate or the supernatural. An internal conflict is a struggle within a character. Internal struggles occur when a character struggles with his/her desires, fears, prejudices, or personality.

Exposition The writer gives background on the characters, setting, and the situation.

Exposition – “The Monkey’s Paw” Setting – Laburnam Villa, a modest and isolated home Main Characters -Mr. and Mrs. White, and their son Herbert. Basic Situation – Sgt. Major Morris visits the Whites and brings with him a magical object from India.

Conflict – “The Monkey’s Paw” The main conflict that propels the plot forward is an external conflict, in this case, character vs. the supernatural/fate: Mr. White vs. the paw. Mr. White struggles with the choice of using the paw or not using the paw. His decision to use the paw is what moves the story forward into the rising action. There are other conflicts, both internal and external, that occur throughout the story.

Rising Action A series of events that intensify the conflict. Generally, the rising action makes up the largest portion of the plot.

Rising Action – “The Monkey’s Paw” Mr. White wishes for 200 pounds. Herbert dies in an accident at work; the Whites receive 200 pounds as compensation. Time passes as the Whites continue to mourn the loss of their son. Mrs. White realizes that two wishes remain; she urges Mr. White to wish their son back, and he does. After a time, there is knocking at the door; Mrs. White believes it is her son, returned from the dead.

Climax The tension reaches its highest point because the outcome of the conflict is about to be revealed.

Climax – “The Money’s Paw” As the knocking intensifies, Mrs. White struggles to unlock the door; Mr. White, fearful and frantic, grabs the monkey’s paw and wishes.

Falling Action A series of events following the climax. The tension lessens because the outcome is clear. Generally, the falling action is much shorter proportionally when compared to the rising action.

Falling Action – “The Monkey’s Paw” The knocking suddenly stops as Mrs. White opens the door. Mrs. White lets out a cry of grief and disappointment.

Resolution The final outcome. Often, the resolution involves a change or an insight. When reading, identify both the resolution (how the conflict is resolved) and the conclusion (the final event of the story); standardized state tests will frequently ask for one or the other when using the term “resolution.”

Resolution – “The Monkey’s Paw” Mr. White rushes downstairs to his wife’s side, then outside to the gate. The street is quiet and deserted.

Foreshadowing Plot Technique: Writers use various plot techniques to add tension to a story. One technique is foreshadowing – giving details that hint at upcoming events.