Elements of a Story

Protagonist The central or main character. The person (animal, robot, etc.) that the story focuses on. The “hero.” What the protagonist wants or needs is what drives the story.

Antagonist This is the person or thing (element/emotion) that stands in the way of what the protagonist (hero) wants or needs.

Exposition The exposition is the first part of the story. In the exposition, the author gives the reader all that is needed to understand what is going on. Setting – where and when the story takes place Characters – who is who, and what they need or want Conflict (Problem) – what stands in the way of what the central character needs or wants.

Inciting Incident This is the precise moment when the reader understands exactly what the conflict (problem) is. The protagonist (central character) wants or needs something, and someone or something (the antagonist) stands in the way.

Rising Action This is the longest part of the story, where the protagonist tries to resolve the conflict. The tension of the story is s-t-r-e-t-c-h-e-d out to keep the reader guessing. Will the asteroid destroy the planet? Will the hero save the girl? Will the parents catch their son or daughter in the act?

Climax The climax is the moment in the story when it is clear how the conflict will turn out. At this moment, the reader understands if the protagonist will get what he or she wants.

Falling Action The dust settles in this part of the story. After the climax, and we know if the protagonist wins or loses, there is still a little action. This time of dust settling is called the “falling action.”

Resolution How does the story turn out? Do they get married and have children? Is the asteroid destroyed? The reader wants to know the end of the story! “Denouement” is French for “the untying.” Untangle the knot for us!!!

The End