Literary Terms and Definitions

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Protagonist

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The main character in a story, often facing a conflict that drives the plot.

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Antagonist

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A character or force in conflict with the protagonist, often creating obstacles for the main character.

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Theme

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The central idea or message in a literary work, often reflecting on human experiences.

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Plot

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The sequence of events that make up a story, including the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

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Character

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A person, animal, or figure represented in a story, each with their own traits and roles.

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Climax

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The most intense, exciting, or important point of a story, typically where the main conflict reaches its peak.

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Resolution

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The conclusion of a story, where conflicts are resolved and the story comes to a close.

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Thesis

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A statement or theory that is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved, often found in essays.

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Rising Action

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The series of events that lead up to the climax, building tension and developing the story's conflict.

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Quote

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A repetition of someone else's statement or thoughts, often used to support arguments or ideas.