Overview
This lecture explains narrative texts, their structure, features, and key decisions involved in writing them, including examples and definitions.
What is a Narrative Text?
- Narrative texts recount real or imaginary events involving characters and specific settings.
- They explain the sequence and connection between events over time.
- Narratives can be based on real events (e.g., biographies, news) or fictional stories (e.g., novels, fables).
Narrative Structures and Time
- Events can be told in chronological (linear) order or with jumps in time (e.g., flashbacks).
- A flashback is when the narration shifts backward to past events.
- Narratives may use indicators that move the story between past, present, and future.
Narrator and Point of View
- The narrator is the voice telling the story, who may be a character or an outside observer.
- An internal narrator is part of the story; an external narrator is not involved in the events.
- The narrator should not be confused with the author, who actually writes the text.
- The author chooses the narrative point of view, shaping the narrative voice.
Writing a Narrative Text
- Begin by defining the plot: decide on characters, setting, time, events, and their links.
- Choose narrative order and point of view, which determines the narrator.
- Use a mix of narrative sequences, descriptions, reflections, and dialogues for engaging storytelling.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Narrative Text — a text that tells a story, real or fictional.
- Narrator — the entity telling the story, either within or outside the events.
- Author — the real person writing the narrative.
- Point of View — the perspective from which the story is told.
- Flashback — a leap back in time within the narrative.
- Plot — the sequence and connection of events in a story.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review examples of narrative texts for structure and use of time.
- Practice outlining a plot with characters, setting, and events.
- Identify narrative order and point of view in sample stories.