10 Questions
What is the effect of a non-linear structure on the reader?
It creates a disjointed or disorientating effect
What is the purpose of a flashback in a narrative?
To give insight into the character's past
What is the effect of using the present tense in a narrative?
It creates a dramatic effect, making the reader feel 'in the moment'
What is the purpose of a cliffhanger ending?
To leave the reader with questions and anticipation
What is the effect of a character's inner dialogue on the reader?
It gives insight into the character's thoughts and emotions
What is the purpose of a circular structure in a narrative?
To confirm the reader's initial expectations, giving a sense of completion
What is the effect of using a 1st person narrator in a narrative?
It establishes a stronger, more personal connection with the reader
What is the purpose of a motif in a narrative?
To highlight a theme or idea throughout the narrative
What is the effect of a time shift in a narrative?
It helps to move the story on by bringing about a change.
What is the effect of foreshadowing in a narrative?
To build anticipation by hinting at events that will occur later in the narrative
Study Notes
Narrative Effects on the Reader
- Introduces or develops a character or plot, often changing the narrative pace
- Helps develop understanding of a character's feelings, thoughts, fears, self-esteem, and perspective
- Creates a sense of suspense, anxiety, or drama, leaving the reader with unanswered questions
- Leaves the reader satisfied or in a positive frame of mind, perhaps bringing relief from negative emotions
Narrative Techniques
- Flashback: revisits past events
- Flashforward: speculates about future events
- Non-linear structure: disrupts the chronological order of events
- Linear structure: follows a chronological order of events
- One-sentence paragraphs: creates a sense of drama or emphasis
- Foreshadowing: hints at future events
- Cliffhanger ending: leaves the reader in suspense
- Reflective/Moral ending: provides a conclusion or lesson
- Framed narrative: uses a narrative within a narrative
Narrative Structure
- Circular structure: returns to a previous point or theme
- Climax or Turning Point: creates a dramatic shift in the narrative
- Contrast: highlights differences between characters, events, or settings
- Time/ Focus/Location Shifts: changes the narrative's perspective or setting
Character Development
- Establishes a stronger, more personal connection with the reader
- Offers insight into a character's thoughts and emotions
- Introduces a new character, adding complexity to the narrative
- Develops the protagonist through relationships, dialogue, or encounters
Tense and Point of View
- Past tense: creates a natural distance from events
- Present tense: creates a dramatic effect, making the reader feel 'in the moment'
- Future tense: encourages speculation about future events
- 1st person narrator: provides a personal, introspective perspective
- 3rd person narrator: offers a more objective, detached viewpoint
- Discourse markers (time, place, general): signal changes in the narrative's focus or direction
Test your knowledge of literary devices used in narrative techniques, including their effects on the reader and the narrative. Identify the purposes and implications of various techniques used in storytelling.
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