Plot The sequence of events

What a plot is not If an author writes, "The king died and then the queen died," there is no plot for a story. But by writing, "The king died and then the queen died of grief," the writer has provided a plot line for a story.

Plot is … A plot is a causal sequence of events, the "why" for the things that happen in the story The plot draws the reader into the characters’ lives helps the reader understand the choices that the characters make

Plot and structure A plot's structure is the way in which the story elements are arranged. Writers vary structure depending on the needs of the story. For example, in a mystery, the author will withhold plot exposition until later in the story. In William Faulkner's "A Rose for Emily" it is only at the end of the story that we learn what Miss Emily has been up to all those years while locked away in her Southern mansion.

Elements of plot Part 1 – Exposition Exposition sets the stage of the story Setting – Time and place Characters/personalities introduced Mood is established

Elements of plot Part 2 – Rising action It becomes clear who the protagonist (main character) is, and who/what the antagonist (opposing person/force) is Conflicts are introduced to the protagonist External conflict = person vs. outside force Internal conflict = person vs. own conscience Mood is still created w/ settings/characters

Elements of plot Part 3 – Climax Moment of greatest tension - when the intensity and reader’s interest reach their highest point Often the point when the largest conflict is solved

Elements of plot Part 4 – Falling action The direct outcome of the conflict The events that result from the climactic point

Elements of plot Part 5 – Resolution Final outcome Theme is revealed Theme: The main message or point an author seems to make with the story.

Examples of plot – Poe’s “The Masque of the Red Death” Exposition = Plague-ravaged countryside, Prospero locks everyone in the castle, decides to throw a party We learn about the setting and the main character’s personality here

“Masque” cont’d. Rising Action – A mood of joviality mixed with hourly serious reflection (from the clock chiming); mysterious figure appears, people begin to respond; conflict: What to do with this guy? Who is he? Everyone wonders who the figure is, including Prospero, who is shocked at the figure’s boldness to wear such a costume

“Masque” cont’d. Climax – Prospero erupts in anger and pursues the figure through the rooms This is the climax b/c he is king – everyone waits to see what he does, and he has made his choice, which is to attack and murder the figure

“Masque” cont’d. Falling Action – Prospero falls dead; the people go to grasp the figure; the figure disappears, leaving only garments Resolution – All die Theme – No one can escape death; death will always find you