Short Story Structure and Character Analysis

The beginning of the story where the setting, characters, and basic situation are introduced.

The event that kicks off the main conflict and sets the story in motion.

Events that build tension and lead to the climax. The conflict grows here.

The turning point of the story – the most intense or important moment, where the conflict reaches its peak.

The events that happen after the climax, leading to the resolution.

The ending where conflicts are resolved and the story concludes.

A character who changes significantly throughout the story. They often grow or transform.

A character who stays the same throughout the story. They don't experience major changes.

A dramatic speech delivered by a character alone on stage, revealing their thoughts and feelings to the audience.

A type of song that introduces the overall tone and themes of the musical.

A song that allows characters to explain who they are or how they feel.

A song that reveals a character's desires and motivations.

A song or piece of music that explains a plot development or crisis, often during a moment of decision.

A highly impactful song designed to energize the audience and build towards the climax.

A song that provides a powerful emotional resolution, leaving a lasting impression on the audience, often by reprising an important theme.

Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something that a character does not, creating suspense, complexity, and emotional impact.

The central problem the characters face in a story, which can be internal (within a character) or external (against others, nature, society, etc.).

Protagonist versus another character, creating direct conflict.

Internal struggle within a character. This can be emotional, psychological, or moral.

A character clashes with societal rules or systems.

The protagonist faces problems caused by man-made machines.

A struggle against natural forces like storms, animals, or harsh environments.

Conflict with beings or powers beyond human understanding.

The underlying message or moral the story conveys, usually universal themes like friendship, courage, or loss.

General ideas explored in a story, such as love, power, loyalty, or revenge.

The person telling the story, which influences how the story is experienced.

The narrator is a character in the story, using "I" or "we."

The narrator is outside the story but knows the thoughts of one character.

The narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of ALL characters.

The narrator tells the story from an external viewpoint, showing only actions and dialogue without inner thoughts.

A story representing a broader message about real life issues or events.

The hero's first major obstacle or challenge, where they fail, but learn a valuable lesson.

The hero faces a more significant challenge that requires greater strength, skill, or courage.

The hero meets allies who aid them on their journey, providing support and teamwork.

The hero must solve a puzzle, navigate a maze, or overcome a challenging obstacle.

The hero enters a mystical or magical place that tests them or provides new knowledge.

A place where the hero rests and heals, preparing for the final battle.

The hero descends into a symbolic or literal underworld to confront their fears or uncover hidden truths.

The hero experiences betrayal or makes a sacrifice for the greater good.

The hero's ultimate challenge, where their success or failure decides the outcome.

Gods or supernatural forces intervene to help the hero in their darkest hour.

The hero receives a reward for their achievements, such as treasure, wisdom, or a sense of accomplishment.

The hero returns home as a leader or unites with a loved one, restoring order to their world.

The world returns to peace, and the hero's journey ends, often leaving them transformed.

The introduction of the setting, main characters, and the central conflict or theme.

The development of the conflict and building of tension.