Plot Terms & Literary Elements

Conflict

Occurs when the protagonist is opposed by some person or force; the story's main problem.

Setting

Tells you where and when the story is taking place.

Plot

The events that happen during the story. This structure is usually outlined on a diagram.

Theme

The central idea or belief in the story. A message about life.

Protagonist

The main character or hero in the story; the character who is faced with the major conflict or opposing force/ human.

Antagonist

The person or force that opposes the main character and is usually viewed as bad or wicked.

Exposition

The beginning of the story, where the setting, characters, and source of conflict or PROBLEM are introduced.

Rising Action

The majority of the story or book; events move the story along and the conflict continues to build. These events increase tension.

Climax

The high point of the story; when the outcome becomes clear (turning point). It is the greatest moment of tension.

Falling Action

What happens immediately after the climax; the story starts to wind down.

Resolution

The end of the story where the conflict is typically resolved.

Falling Action

The few events that happen after the climax.