Story Literary Elements Some basics that every good story must have ….

Exposition Sets the stage for the story. Characters are introduced. Setting is described.

Every story needs characters People Animals Or Creatures

The protagonist is the “good guy”

The antagonist is the “bad guy” or force

The time and place of the story is the setting

Plot Diagram Exposition Climax Resolution Falling Action Rising Action

Rising Action Conflict begins to unfold. Plot becomes more complex and complications arise. Suspense builds as characters struggle to find solutions to the conflict.

Great stories have a conflict Man vs. Man Man vs. Nature Man vs. Society Man vs. Machine Man vs. Himself

The climax is the most exciting part!!

Climax Turning point of the story. Outcome of the conflict is decided. Usually results in a change in the characters or a solution to the problem.

Falling Action/Resolution Occurs at the conclusion of the story. Loose ends are tied up and the story ends.

The point of view is the perspective of the story “I was framed! I just wanted to borrow a cup of sugar!” “That rotten wolf tried to eat us!!!!”

Theme The main message of the story. Might be a lesson about life or an insight into human nature. The reader has to infer the theme from the details and events of the story if it is not stated directly.

Whether you’re the reader, or the writer, a great story includes all these literary elements!!! theme protagonist conflict climax characters setting antagonist point of view