1. What is a Novel?
Did you know?!?! “Novel” is derived from the latin word “novellas” which means “new”.

2. Definition:
A “novel” is a fictitious prose tale of considerable length with characters representing those of “real life” in a plot at least words (modern novels tend to be short).

3. Importance of a Novel
There are four main reasons why a serious novel is important:
Deals with Reality – depicts an accurate account of real life events. Deals with the whole person through its characters (physical, mental, and spiritual self)
It Teaches – shows readers strengths and weaknesses, suggests causes and cures to problems, describes other cultures’ beliefs and values

4. Importance of a Novel
It is the focal point of the Humanities – incorporates many other subject areas in its content (historical problems, latest findings in science, philosophy, psychology and sociology)
It is Provocative – it demands a response. It is an art form in which the “creator” tries to say something new, or to restate an old truth in a new way. (theme)

5. Typical Elements of the Novel
Plot – A story line beginning with a conflict, running through a series of climaxes and anti-climaxes, to a final conflict and resolution.
Theme – The message the author is trying to convey about life and the human condition.

6. Typical Elements of the Novel
Opening – the first couple chapters, which provide the reader with background information on people, setting, and the basic conflicts. Provides background information needed to understand the story.
Setting – Where and when the novel takes place. Shows the environmental forces, which motivate the character.

7. Typical Elements of the Novel
Conflict – is the collision of two opposing forces, which makes any story worth reading.
Types of conflict include:
Character vs. Nature (Castaway)
Character vs. Society (Robots)
Character vs. Him/Herself (Twilight / Spiderman)
Character vs. Character (Taken)
Character vs. Unknown (Mist / Lord of the Rings)

8. Typical Elements of the Novel
Initial Incident – the event in the plot that introduces the main conflict of the story.
Rising Actions – events that develop the plot of the story.
Anti-climaxes – Present new problems, which help develop the protagonist into a more complex character.

9. Typical Elements of the Novel
Climax – The part of the story where the protagonist is confronted by the need to react to an opposing force; usually the highest point of tension and the turning point in the story.
Falling Actions – events leading to the reolution of the conflict.

10. Typical Elements of the Novel
Resolution – A final decision, move or action, which discloses the author’s theme in terms of victory or tragedy. Describes how the main conflict is resolves.
Dialogue – any words enclosed in quotations. Provides a break from straight narration or description.

11. Typical Elements of the Novel
Characterization - the development of a character throughout the novel
Ways to develop character include:
What the character says, thinks, and does
What the author says about the character
What others say about the character
Character Types:
 Major  Minor  Protagonist  Antagonist
 Round  Flat  Static  Dynamic  Silent

12. Copy and label the diagram below.
1 – Introduction
2 – Initial Incident
3 – Rising Actions
4 – Anti-climax
5 – Climax
6 – Falling Actions
7 - Resolution 5 6 3 4 7 1 2