Setting & Characters
What is setting?
This term names when and where a story happens.
What is exposition?
The part of the plot that introduces characters, setting, and basic situation before the action begins.
What is person vs. person?
A struggle between two characters (often protagonist vs. antagonist).
What is suspense?
excitement or tension
What is the protagonist?
The main person, animal, or creature who the story focuses on; sometimes they change over time.
What is rising action?
The part of the story where events build toward the climax and tension increases.
What is indirect characterization?
Indirect Characterization shows things that reveal the personality of the character without telling the reader the specific trait.
What is theme?
the universal message
What is the antagonist?
This character opposes the protagonist and creates obstacles; not always purely “evil.”
What is the climax?
The turning point or most intense moment in the story that determines the outcome.
What is person vs. self?
The inner struggle inside a character about choices, identity, or beliefs.
What is hyperbole?
A deliberate exaggeration used for effect (e.g., “I waited a million years”).
What can the 5 senses do?
Authors use the five senses to help readers visualize the setting and create the mood.
What is falling action?
The events that follow the climax and lead toward the story’s end.
What is conflict?
A problem or struggle between two people, things or ideas.
What is foreshadowing?
A device where the writer gives hints or clues about future events in the story.
Explain how the setting can affect character motivation.
The setting can shape what characters want, what they fear, and what choices are possible — for example, a character in a war-torn country might be motivated to find safety for family
What is resolution?
The conclusion, the tying together of all of the threads
What is characterization?
This term describes the methods an author uses to create and reveal a character’s personality (includes thoughts, actions, dialogue, description).
Define irony and give a short example.
Irony is when the outcome is the opposite of what is expected — example: A fire station burns down while the firefighters are out on a call.