Techniques of Storytelling

Front

What is the monomyth, also known as the hero’s journey?

Back

The monomyth is a story structure found in many folk tales, myths, and religious writings, where the hero is called to leave their home, undergoes a difficult journey, overcomes trials, and returns home with a reward or newfound wisdom.

Front

How can using the monomyth structure benefit a presentation?

Back

Using the monomyth can help explain what has brought the presenter to the wisdom they want to share, making the message more engaging for the audience.

Front

What is the mountain structure in storytelling?

Back

The mountain structure maps the tension and drama in a story, starting with setting the scene, followed by small challenges and rising action, leading to a climactic conclusion.

Front

How does the mountain structure differ from the monomyth?

Back

Unlike the monomyth, the mountain structure does not necessarily have a happy ending.

Front

What are nested loops in storytelling?

Back

Nested loops is a technique where three or more narratives are layered within each other, with the most important story at the center, elaborated by surrounding stories.

Front

What is the purpose of using sparklines in presentations?

Back

Sparklines map presentation structures and contrast the ordinary world with an ideal world, drawing attention to societal problems and creating a desire for change.

Front

What is the technique of in medias res in storytelling?

Back

In medias res begins the narrative in the heat of the action before going back to explain how the story reached that point, engaging the audience from the start.

Front

What are converging ideas in speech structure?

Back

Converging ideas show how different strands of thinking come together to form one product or idea, often illustrating the birth of a movement or partnership.

Front

What is a false start in storytelling?

Back

A false start is when a seemingly predictable story is disrupted unexpectedly, leading to a reassessment of the narrative, often used to discuss failures and lessons learned.

Front

What is the petal structure in storytelling?

Back

The petal structure organizes multiple speakers or stories around one central concept, allowing for several unconnected stories to relate back to a single message.