1. Exposition- the part of a narrative, usually at the beginning, that sketches in the background of the characters and the action so that the reader can understand the situation.
EXAMPLE: Twelfth Night: Background on Orsino and Viola (Act 1.1-2)

2. Rising Action- the first part of many narratives during which the tension between opposing characters or forces builds toward a climax
EXAMPLE: Twelfth Night: Most of the play…Love triangle is established, Mavolio/Andrew subplots, and mistaken identities (Act )

3. Climax- the decisive action or turning point in a narrative; the point of greatest intensity or interest
EXAMPLE: Twelfth Night: Sebastian marries Olivia (Act 4.3)

4. Falling Action- the action in a narrative that follows the climax and represents the working out of the decisive action of the climax; the denouement
EXAMPLE: Twelfth Night: Most of Scene 5…Viola reveals true identity, 3 couples, Malvolio’s scorn.

5. Denouement- the last part of the plot, following the climax; falling action; the outcome, solution, unraveling, or clarification of the plot
EXAMPLE: Twelfth Night: Fool’s song at the end of Act 5…message: life goes on!