English Terms

Front

Plot

Back

The arrangement of events in the short story, novel, or play.

Front

Introduction

Back

Beginning of the story where the main character and setting are introduced.

Front

Setting

Back

The time, place, and mood of the story.

Front

Rising Action

Back

Events that develop the main conflict, characters, and perhaps introduce minor conflict that leads to climax. Contains Initiating Incident and foreshadowing.

Front

Initiating Incident

Back

The first event that begins the main conflict.

Front

Foreshadowing

Back

Hints of what may happen later on in the story; help create suspense.

Front

Climax

Back

The turning point for the protagonist or when a dramatic event happens.

Front

Falling Action

Back

The events following the climax that untie the conflict.

Front

What is another name for Falling Action

Back

Denouement.

Front

Conclusion/Resolution

Back

How the story ends. Either resolved or indeterminate.