1. Elements of Plot
The plot of a work of literature consists of the events which comprise the story. These events can be broken into five categories.

2. Exposition Introduces characters and setting
Supplies background information (i.e. things the characters have done before the story, history of the setting, etc.)
Character development occurs
Sets tone and mood of the story

3. Setting
The setting of a story includes the place (real or imaginary), time period, and established mood of the story.
Characters
Characters are the people, animals, or imaginary creatures who take part in the action.
Static characters remain the same throughout the story.
Dynamic characters undergo change (not superficial!)
Round characters have multiple characteristics (both good and bad) like a real person.
Flat characters have only one characteristic, like a caricature.

4. Characters continued
The protagonist of a story is the main character. Generally this is the character for which the reader feels the most sympathy.
NOTE: The protagonist is not necessarily a “good guy.”
The antagonist of a story is the character or force (i.e. Joe or a hurricane) which is at odds or in conflict with the protagonist.

5. Tone and Mood
The tone of a story is the manner in which it is conveyed to the reader. For example, the tone can be hostile if the writer uses aggressive language or honest if the writer is open and forthcoming.
The mood of a story is the feeling conveyed to the reader. This can be done using descriptive words/phrases and also established by the tone. For example a story could feel happy or sad depending on elements introduced in the exposition.

6. We are introduced to our main characters (Jack, Will, and Elizabeth) and the environment in which they live. We know some background: Will has a past involving pirates of which he is not entirely aware.

7. Rising Action Introduces central conflict with the inciting incident
This is when the plot “thickens,” complications to the plot arise
Builds suspense: because the characters have been developed already, we begin to care what happens to them

8. …the Black Pearl approaches Port Royal and a battle ensues resulting in Elizabeth’s capture. This inciting incident leads to major conflicts: Jack’s desire to recapture the Pearl and Will’s desperation to save Elizabeth.

9. Climax The turning point of the story
Suspense/interest reach their peak, this is “when the dog doo hits the fan”

10. The undead pirates battle the English soldiers with the help of Jack Sparrow. This is the only way they will get home safely and Jack can recapture his ship.

11. Falling Action Events occurring between the climax and resolution
Begins to tie up loose ends so a solution to the central conflict can be found

12. The battle is won, but Jack is sentenced to death
The battle is won, but Jack is sentenced to death. He is rescued from the gallows…..but will he escape the soldiers?

13. Resolution Sometimes called “denouement”
 Resolves the conflict of the story and brings closure
Theme becomes apparent

14. Theme
A perception or lesson about life or human nature that is conveyed, or told, to the reader.
Themes are often implied rather than stated.
Themes are never one word
Themes are the purpose of literature: the big picture
Themes are not story specific

15. Jack is able to escape, returns to his ship, and is hailed as captain by the crew. They sail away into the sunset. Meanwhile back in Port Royal the Governor points out that one can be a good man and a pirate at the same time….like Jack.