Short Story Terms

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Direct Characterization

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The writer directly tells the reader about a character's personality.

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Tone

Back

The author’s attitude toward the characters or situation.

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Climax

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The high point of interest or suspense in the story; the turning point.

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Mood

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The atmosphere or overall feeling of the story.

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Motif

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An object or idea that recurs throughout a literary work.

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Indirect Characterization

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The writer reveals a character's personality through their actions, thoughts, and dialogue.

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Theme

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The central idea or message conveyed in a literary work.

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Exposition

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The introduction of background information, setting, and characters in a story.

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Falling Action

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The events that follow the climax and lead to the resolution.

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Resolution

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The conclusion of the story where conflicts are resolved.