Elements of Fiction

Front

Protagonist

Back

Main character in a story, play, or novel.

Front

Setting

Back

The time and place of a story, poem, or play.

Front

Rising Action

Back

A stage of the plot which develops the conflict; the conflict becomes more exciting/intense.

Front

External Conflict

Back

When a character struggles against a force outside her/himself.

Front

Falling Action

Back

Part of the plot where the story begins to close and the action slows down.

Front

Climax

Back

Point of greatest interest in a story; the turning point.

Front

Characterization

Back

The process by which the writer reveals the personality of a character.

Front

Theme

Back

Message about life or human nature; also known as a life lesson.

Front

Plot

Back

Series of important events which make up a story.

Front

Internal Conflict

Back

When the problem/struggle is within a character (the character is 'arguing' with her/himself).