Overview
This lecture introduces the main elements of prose, explaining each component's role in prose fiction and how they contribute to storytelling.
Elements of Prose
- Prose is ordinary written or spoken language, without poetic structure.
- The main elements of prose include plot, character, setting, point of view, conflict, and theme.
- Plot is the sequence of events or actions in a story.
- Characters are the people, animals, or beings that take part in the story.
- The setting is the time and place where the story occurs.
- Point of view refers to the perspective from which the story is told (e.g., first person, third person).
- Conflict is the struggle between opposing forces that drives the plot.
- Theme is the central idea or underlying message of the story.
Structure of Plot
- A typical plot structure consists of exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.
- Exposition introduces the characters, setting, and basic situation.
- Rising action includes events that create suspense and develop the conflict.
- The climax is the turning point or most intense moment in the story.
- Falling action shows the events resulting from the climax.
- Resolution is the conclusion where conflicts are resolved.
Types of Characters
- Main characters are central to the story, often called protagonists.
- Antagonists oppose the main characters and create conflict.
- Static characters do not change throughout the story.
- Dynamic characters experience significant internal change.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Prose — ordinary written or spoken language, different from poetry.
- Plot — the arrangement of events in a story.
- Character — personalities involved in the story.
- Setting — the time and location of the story.
- Point of View — the narrator’s position in relation to the story.
- Conflict — the main problem or struggle in the story.
- Theme — the underlying message or main idea of the story.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review examples of each element in a short story.
- Prepare to identify these elements in assigned reading.