English 112 Feb 25 2008

English 112 Feb 25, 2008

Elements of Fiction

We have discussed: Character and Point of View

Today we will discuss: Plot and Structure

Part 1)

Plot: The plot consists of the major events that make up a story. In many short stories, these events are linked by _causal relationships_.

A causal relationship exists when one events results in the occurrence of another event. For example, because I do not have any money, I do not get to buy lunch today.

Typically, plots detail a conflict, or struggle, between people, places, or things.

They generally begin with exposition, or background information.

Plots tend to reach a moment of "crisis," or climax, which is followed by a resolution or denouement.

Part 2)


Frank O’Conner’s Guests of The Nation
Let’s begin with the important Specific Details:
What is the plot?
What are the causal relationships?
What is the crisis?
What is the resolution?