Plot & Conflict

Plot Plot is the sequence of events in a story. Each event causes or leads to the next. Plot is often created through conflict, a struggle between opposing forces. An external conflict is one between a character and an outside force, such as another character, nature, society, or fate. An internal conflict takes place within the mind of a character who is torn between opposing feelings or between different courses of action.

Problem and Conflict in “Cinderella” Problem: Cinderella wants to go to the ball, but her stepsisters prevent her from going. Conflict: The conflict is external—Cinderella versus the stepsisters and their mother.

Types of Conflict Conflict is generally categorized in the following ways: Person versus Person : this is an external struggle between two or more characters

Types of Conflict Person versus Society : this is an external struggle between a character and a social force or condition produced by society, such as poverty, political revolution, or a set of values Wealthy Poor

Types of Conflict Person versus Nature : this is an external struggle between a character and some natural obstacle or natural condition (includes weather conditions and animals)

Types of Conflict Person versus Self: this is an internal struggle within a character, where aspects of his or her personality may struggle for dominance. These aspects may be emotional, intellectual, or moral. (ex. “Do I steal a loaf of bread to feed my starving family?”) Should I kiss her?

1. Exposition introduces the story’s: The Stages of Plot 1. Exposition introduces the story’s: characters setting conflict

The Stages of Plot 2. Rising action occurs as complications, twists, or intensifications of the conflict occur.

The Stages of Plot 3. Climax is the emotional high point of the story.

The Stages of Plot 4. Falling action is the logical result of the climax.

The Stages of Plot 5. Resolution presents the final outcome of the story. And they lived happily ever after…

The Stages of plot in Cinderella CLIMAX The stepsisters try to force their feet into the slipper. It fits Cinderella. A fairy godmother appears and provides Cinderella with clothes, a coach, and footman. Cinderella dances with the prince, but leaves hurriedly at midnight; losing a slipper An invitation to the ball arrives but Cinderella is forbidden to go. FALLING ACTION Cinderella lives with her stepsisters and their mother. they make her wear rags and do all the hard work. Cinderella and the prince marry. The prince says he will marry the woman whom the slipper fits. Inciting Incident Cinderella goes to the ball. EXPOSITION / Beginning The stepsisters go to the ball. They live happily ever after. RISING ACTION RESOLUTION