Literary Terms and Concepts

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Plot

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The order of events that make up a story.

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Setting

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The time and place (when and where) of the story.

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Theme

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The life-lesson the author wants the audience to learn from a story. Should be a complete sentence.

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Symbol

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A concrete object that represents or stands for an abstract idea; using symbols in literature is called Symbolism.

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Narrator

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The person or voice telling the story.

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Character

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A person, animal, being, creature, or thing in a story.

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Protagonist

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The main character — the story is about their experiences, and the audience sees the events of the story from their perspective. Not always the 'good guy.'

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Antagonist

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The enemy, the character who opposes/goes against the main character (often the villain).

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Conflict

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The problem or struggle the main character faces.

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Internal conflict

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Inside the character’s mind (character vs. self).