Elements of Fiction

Elements of Fiction

• The elements of fiction include theme, plot, setting, characterization, and narration.

Plot

• Plot refers to what happens in the story, also known as the storyline.

Theme

• Theme is the moral or main idea of the story, applying to many types of stories in any genre.
• Themes do not provide any plot developments.

Characterization

• The protagonist is the main character in a story, involved in the main conflict and its resolution.
• The antagonist is the person opposing the protagonist.

Narration

• First Person Point of View: The narrator tells the story and is a character in the story, using pronouns like I, me, us, etc.
• Third Person Omniscient: The narrator is not a character in the story, but can tell the thoughts and actions of all characters at all times, using pronouns like he, she, him, etc.
• Third Person Limited: The narrator is not a character in the story, but can tell the thoughts and actions of a few key characters at all times, using pronouns like he, she, him, etc.

Setting

• Setting provides the when and where of the story, including the timeframe, place or location, and context or historical background.

Characterization Types

• Flat Characterization: A character with one or two traits, often a stereotype, helping to move the plot along more quickly.
• Round Characterization: A complex character with many sides or traits, with unpredictable behavior and a fully developed personality, often an antagonist.
• Dynamic Characterization: A character who experiences an essential change in personality or attitude, often a protagonist.
• Static Characterization: A character who does not change or develop beyond their initial presentation.

Conflict

• Conflict refers to any form of opposition in a story, including external and internal conflict.
• External Conflict: Character vs. Character, Character vs. Society, and Character vs. Nature.
• Internal Conflict: The protagonist experiences conflict with their conscience.