Overview
This lecture introduces Freytag's Pyramid, a plot structure model outlining seven key stages common to many stories, using The Count of Monte Cristo as an example.
Freytag’s Pyramid: The Seven Plot Elements
- Gustav Freytag identified a common pattern in story plots known as Freytag’s Pyramid.
- The pyramid consists of seven elements: exposition, inciting incident, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution, and dénouement.
- Most stories, regardless of genre, follow this structured pattern.
Stages Illustrated with The Count of Monte Cristo
- Exposition: Introduces main characters and setting (e.g., Edmond Dantès in Marseilles, 1815).
- Inciting Incident: Event that starts the main conflict (Edmond is wrongly arrested at his betrothal party).
- Rising Action: Series of events building suspense and complications (Edmond’s imprisonment, escape, and quest for revenge).
- Climax: The peak of excitement or conflict (Edmond executes his revenge, leading to ruin or death for his enemies).
- Falling Action: Events resulting from the climax (secondary characters’ actions, consequences unfold).
- Resolution: Main conflict is resolved (Count helps unite lovers, accepts a new love).
- DĂ©nouement: Loose ends are tied up, themes or future possibilities hinted (Count sails into the sunset).
Key Terms & Definitions
- Exposition — the beginning where setting and characters are introduced.
- Inciting Incident — the event triggering the story’s main conflict.
- Rising Action — a sequence of events creating suspense and developing the plot.
- Climax — the most intense point where the story’s outcome is decided.
- Falling Action — events following the climax, leading toward closure.
- Resolution — the conflict is resolved and the story’s main problem is addressed.
- Dénouement — the final section where any remaining issues are settled.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the seven elements of Freytag’s Pyramid.
- Apply the pyramid to another story to identify each stage.
- Prepare to discuss Freytag’s Pyramid in class.