Short Story Elements

Front

What is the plot of a story?

Back

The series of events in a story.

Front

What is the setting of a story?

Back

The time and place that a story takes place.

Front

What is a protagonist?

Back

The main character in a story, often facing a conflict.

Front

What is an antagonist?

Back

A character or force that opposes the protagonist.

Front

What are flat characters?

Back

Characters that are two-dimensional and represent stereotypes.

Front

What are round characters?

Back

Complex, three-dimensional characters that have depth.

Front

What is exposition in a story?

Back

The introduction of background information, setting, and characters.

Front

What is a climax in a story?

Back

The most exciting part of a story; the turning point.

Front

What is a theme in literature?

Back

The main message or life lesson of a story.

Front

What is a conflict in a story?

Back

The struggle between opposing forces, which drives the plot.