Literary Elements and Techniques

Front

Exposition

Back

The introduction of the characters, setting, and conflict in the story.

Front

Narrative hook

Back

Catches the reader’s attention.

Front

Rising action

Back

Adds complications, twists, and intensifications of the conflict.

Front

Climax

Back

The emotional high point of the story.

Front

Falling action

Back

Presents the result of the climax.

Front

Resolution

Back

Reveals the final outcome of the story.

Front

Conflict

Back

The struggle between opposing forces in a story or play.

Front

Internal conflict

Back

Exists within the mind of a character who is torn between different courses of action.

Front

External conflict

Back

Exists when a character struggles against some outside force, such as another character, nature, society, or fate.

Front

Characterization

Back

The methods an author uses to reveal a character’s personality.