Fiction

Fiction Definition of Fiction Etymologically, the word fiction has been derived from Latin word “fictus,” which means “to form.” However, in literature, Merriam Webster defines it as, “literature in the form of prose, especially novels, that describes imaginary events and people.” In fact, it is one of the two branches of literature, the other being non-fiction. This particular branch of literature consists of stories, novels, and dramas based on made-up and fabricated stories and characters. Fiction contains certain symbolic and thematic features known as “literary merits.” In other words, fiction narrates a story, which aims at something bigger than merely a story. In this attempt, it comments on something significant related to social, political, or human related issues. Fiction may be based on stories of actual historical events. Although fictitious characters are presented in a fictitious setting in stories and novels, they may have some resemblance to real life events and characters. Writers alter their characters very skillfully when they take them from actual life. Examples of Fiction in Literature Example #1: Alice in Wonderland (By Lewis Carrol) Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll is a good example of fiction. The story narrates various adventures of the main character, Alice, in a fictitious land full of incredible creatures and events. Alice has to go through certain magical experiences in the wonderland. According to the story, one day, while reading book, Alice grows bored, and notices a white rabbit. She follows the rabbit when it goes into a hole in the ground. When peeping through the hole, Alice loses her balance and falls in. She floats down slowly into the hole, and observes everything around her. Then Alice enters Wonderland, where she witnesses a number of weird things. This entire magical tale is fabricated and imaginary, which makes it a good fiction to enjoy. Example #2: Pride and Prejudice (by Jane Austen) Another ample example to portray fiction is, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. It is one of the most famous English novels. Unlike the previous example, this story is set in a real-life-like setting. All characters are humans, and no magical or strange events take place in this novel. All of

the characters, and the entire story is a made-up narrative, each element the product of Jane Austen’s imagination. She not only presents the issues of the contemporary life faced by middle class families, but also daily preoccupations of the common people. The novel presents a good fiction of actual life of nineteenth century. Example #3: Hamlet (by William Shakespeare) William Shakespeare’s Hamlet is another apt example of fiction. The story of the play moves around the main character, Prince Hamlet. He is informed by the Ghost of his father that his uncle murdered his father, King Hamlet, and married his wife and Hamlet’s mother, Queen Gertrude. The Ghost elicits a promise from Hamlet that he will avenge his murder by killing the murderer. This becomes Hamlet’s dilemma. He vows to kill his uncle, but delays it on one pretext or another. Overall, the story is all about the intrigues and plots of the royal castle of Elsinore in Denmark. The story may have some connection with the real life events and characters, yet it is completely a fabricated story created by Shakespeare to entertain the Elizabeth audience of that time. Function of Fiction The function of fiction is to entertain, educate, and inspire the readers and the audience. Literature in general, and fiction in particular, is capable enough to sweep our emotions. Therefore, fiction gives the audience an experience beyond their daily lives. It provides them an insight into the life of the characters, their manners, vicissitudes, and events related to them. It also is used to point out the flaws and drawbacks of a society, race, and nation in a manner that it does not touch the boundary of stricture or criticism. Rather, fiction points out drawbacks, and then suggests solutions for the individuals and the nations alike. To sum up, fiction can also provide a vent to our pent-up emotions such as hatred, anger and dislike but in a very light manner without pointing out specific individuals or groups. Novel Novel Definition A Novel is a long narrative work of fiction with some realism. It is often in prose form and is published as a single book. The word ‘novel’ has been derived from the Italian word ‘novella’ which means “new”. Similar to a short story, a novel has some features like a representation of characters, dialogues, setting, plot, climax, conflict, and resolution. However, it does not require all the elements to be a good novel.

Types of Novel There are many types of novels. They include mysteries, thrillers, suspense, detective, science fiction, romantic, historical, realist or even postmodern. Examples of Novels from Literature Example #1 Animal Farm by George Orwell Animal Farm by George Orwell was written in 1945 and published in England. It allegorizes the story of the Communist Revolution in Russia through the characters of pigs and satirizes its degradation into the same totalitarian regime. The story revolves around animals where pigs are the cleverer than others. They bring a revolution, expelling their old master, Mr. Jones. However, after a couple of years, the pig leaders Snowball and Napoleon develop friction. Snowball flees to save his life, and the situation turns a full circle where Napoleon and his cohorts again take a dictatorial turn to run the administration of the farm through propaganda and other strategies. This is a short form of a novel with animals as its characters. Short Story Short Story Definition A short story is a fully developed story which is shorter than a novel and longer than a fable. It typically takes just a single sitting for reading. Short Story focuses on the incidents bigger or smaller and evokes strong feelings from its readers. A short story often has a few characters in the plot. Features of a Short Story As a short story is mostly a short narrative and has few features. The standard features include exposition, complication, crisis, climax, and resolution of the crisis. However, it is not essential that all short stories follow the same pattern. Examples of Short Stories from Literature Example #1 The Happy Prince by Oscar Wilde

The Happy Prince is one of the best stories written in English Literature written by Oscar Wilde. The story shows how the elites of that kingdom neglect the poor. And the statue of the Happy Prince takes help of a Swallow to help the poor of the city. One by one, the Prince starts losing his precious stones, rubies, and gold leaves when the Swallow starts plucking them give to the poor that the Prince can see from his high pedestal. The dramatic irony of the story reaches the climax when the city mayor sees the dead bird and the ugly broken statue. When the statue is sent to a furnace, God invites the Prince and the Swallow to live in the City of Gold in heaven. Character Definition of Character All stories need certain necessary elements. Without these elements, literary works often fail to make sense. For instance, one of the essential elements of every story is a plot with a series of events. Another important element is a character. A character can be any person, a figure, an inanimate object, or animal. There are different types of characters, and each serves its unique function in a story or a piece of literature. Dynamic Character A dynamic character changes during the course of a novel or a story. This change in character or his/her outlook is permanent. That is why sometimes a dynamic character is also called a “developing character.” Static Character A static character remains the same throughout the whole story. Even the events in a story or novel do not change character’s outlook, perceptions, habits, personality, or motivations. Antagonist An antagonist is a bad guy, or an opponent of the protagonist or the main character. The action in the story arises from a conflict between the protagonist and the antagonist. The antagonist can be a person, an inanimate object, an animal, or nature itself. Protagonist Every story has a protagonist, the main character, who creates the action of the plot and engages readers, arousing their empathy and interest. The

protagonist is often a hero or heroine of the story, as the whole plot moves around him or her. Round Character The round characters are well-developed and complex figures in a story. They are more realistic, and demonstrate more depth in their personalities. They can make surprising or puzzling decisions, and attract readers’ attention. There are many factors that may affect them, and round characters react to such factors realistically. Flat Character A flat character does not change during a story. Also, he or she usually only reveals one or two personality traits. Stock Character A stock character is a flat character that is instantly recognizable by readers. Like a flat character, the stock character does not undergo any development throughout the story. Examples of Character in Literature Example #1: The Lord of the Rings trilogy (By J. R. R.) In The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, Frodo and his friend Sam discover their unexpected personal commitment, emotional and physical strength, and dedication to the cause. Gandalf discovers that his trust was broken by his fellow wizards, thus he transforms into a magician with a stronger character. Aragorn, an heir to line of kings, gives up his title; however, over the period of time he discovers his leadership skills, and decides to regain his crown. All of these characters provide us with good examples of round characters, each having depth of personality, and abilities to surprise the readers. Example #2: A Christmas Carol (by Charles Dickens) In Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, Ebenezer Scrooge is a tightfisted person. He forces his workers to work hard, but gives them peanuts in return. However, after undergoing some very strange and disturbing experiences with the ghosts, he changes his ways – paying his employees more than their fair wages, giving them days off work, and even gives gifts. This transformation makes him fit into the role of a dynamic character.

Example #3: Hedda Gabler (by Henrik Ibsen) Hedda Gabler is manipulative, cold, and “demonic,” even though she is the title character – the focus of the play. She is the most complex and psychologically compelling character, the reason that she is a dynamic character. Example #4: Othello (by William Shakespeare) At some points, it seems that Iago is the protagonist, since he dominates the entire play and delivers soliloquies. However, he does not change at all, and most of the protagonists undergo some sort of change during a play. Also, in the opening lines, Iago describes himself as someone who wishes to destroy Othello. Thus, his actions transform him into a tragic antagonistic type of character, though he is the central character of the play. Function of Character The main function of a character in a story is to extend or prolong the plot, make it readable and interesting. Many stories use multiple characters, and every story has a main character that affects the plot a great deal. The main character could be a protagonist, an antagonist, a dynamic, a static, a flat, or a round character. Readers feel that the characters given in the literary pieces exist, and they enjoy reading their real and lifelike figures and actions. Theme Definition of Theme Theme is defined as a main idea or an underlying meaning of a literary work, which may be stated directly or indirectly. Major and Minor Themes Major and minor themes are two types of themes that appear in literary works. A major theme is an idea that a writer repeats in his literary work, making it the most significant idea in the work. A minor theme, on the other hand, refers to an idea that appears in a work briefly, giving way to another minor theme. Examples of theme in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” are matrimony, love, friendship, and affection. The whole narrative revolves around the major theme of matrimony. Its minor themes are love, friendship, affectation etc.

Difference Between a Theme and a Subject It is important not to confuse a theme of a literary work with its subject. Subject is a topic that acts as a foundation for a literary work, while a theme is an opinion expressed on the subject. For example, a writer may choose a subject of war for his story, and the theme may be his personal opinion that war is a curse for humanity. Usually, it is up to the readers to explore the theme of a literary work by analyzing characters, plot, and other literary devices. Presentation of Themes A writer presents themes in a literary work through several means. A writer may express a theme through the feelings of his main character about the subject he has chosen to write about. Similarly, themes are presented through thoughts and conversations of different characters. Moreover, the experiences of the main character in the course of a literary work give us an idea about its theme. Finally, the actions and events taking place in a narrative are consequential in determining its theme. Short Examples of Theme 1. When the astronaut landed on the moon, he felt loneliness. Thinking there was no one else, he became a little forlorned, though the view of Earth was stunningly beautiful. (Theme of lonesomeness) 2. The space travelers were travelling to the moon, when their spaceship suddenly ran out of fuel. They were all frightened to learn that they wouldn’t be able to return to Earth, and could only land on the moon. (Theme of fear) 3. The bus was travelling at a great speed when it was stopped by a gang of robbers. The passengers were ordered to get out, leaving their precious belongings in the bus. (Theme of fear) 4. Their marriage ceremony was taking place in a grand hotel. All the eminent people of the city were invited, the reason that the celebration was excellent. (Theme of happiness) 5. As soon as the clock struck 12 at noon, the jubilations started. It travelled from East to West on the first day of the year. (Theme of felicitation)

6. The religious leader was leading a huge congregation of followers, praying with utmost humility. (Theme of religiosity) 7. All the family members were dressed in black, with somber faces. They were participating in the funeral ceremony of their deceased relative. (Theme of gloom) 8. The cricket match was reaching a highpoint, the fans of both teams screaming their support. It was an excellent game. (Theme of cheerfulness) 9. The teacher said that she hoped all of her students would pass with good grades. (Theme of optimism) 10. The father of the slowwitted student said he had no false hopes about his son’s future. (Theme of pessimism) 11. The immigrant looked around to talk to somebody, but could find no one who spoke his language. He felt claustrophobic and desolate. (Theme of hopelessness) 12. Only the laborers were working on Labor Day. (Theme of irony) 13. The conference was in full swing, with scholars delivering knowledgeable lectures on varying subjects. The audience enjoyed it immensely. (Theme of learning) 14. The politician was delivering a speech on the need for peace between two neighboring states. He said through peace they could achieve what not possible through war. (Theme of peace) 15. The general commanded his troops to open fire at the enemy, and to kill each and every soldier of the combatants. (Theme of war) Examples of Theme in Literature Example #1: Love and Friendship Theme Love and friendship are frequently occurring themes in literature. They generate emotional twists and turns in a narrative, and can lead to a variety of endings: happy, sad, or bittersweet. The following are famous literary works with love and friendship themes:  Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare  Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

 Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy  Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen  Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen Plot Definition of Plot Plot is a literary term used to describe the events that make up a story, or the main part of a story. These events relate to each other in a pattern or a sequence. The structure of a novel depends on the organization of events in the plot of the story. Plot is known as the foundation of a novel or story, around which the characters and settings are built. It is meant to organize information and events in a logical manner. When writing the plot of a piece of literature, the author has to be careful that it does not dominate the other parts of the story. Primary Elements of a Plot There are five main elements in a plot. 1. Exposition or Introduction This is the beginning of the story, where characters and setting are established. The conflict or main problem is introduced as well. 2. Rising Action Rising action which occurs when a series of events build up to the conflict. The main characters are established by the time the rising action of a plot occurs, and at the same time, events begin to get complicated. It is during this part of a story that excitement, tension, or crisis is encountered. 3. Climax In the climax, or the main point of the plot, there is a turning point of the story. This is meant to be the moment of highest interest and emotion, leaving the reader wondering what is going to happen next. 4. Falling Action

Falling action, or the winding up of the story, occurs when events and complications begin to resolve. The result of the actions of the main characters are put forward. 5. Resolution Resolution, or the conclusion, is the end of a story, which may occur with either a happy or a tragic ending. Examples of Plot in Literature Example #1: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (By J. K. Rowling) Among the examples of plot in modern literature, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is probably the most familiar to both readers and moviegoers. The plot of the story begins when Harry learns that Professor Snape is after the Sorcerer’s Stone. The Professor lets loose a troll, who nearly kills Harry and his friends. In addition, Harry finds out that Hagrid let out the secret of the giant dog to a stranger in return for a dragon, which means that Snape can now reach the Sorcerer’s Stone. Example #2: Pride and Prejudice (By Jane Austen) A very good plot example in romantic fiction appears in the book Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. The plot of the story begins when Lizzie’s sister, Jane, falls in love with Darcy’s friend named Mr. Bingley. Lizzie develops and interest in Mr. Wickham, who accuses Darcy of destroying him financially. When Lizzie goes to meet her friend, she runs into Mr. Darcy, who proposes, and Lizzie rejects. She then writes him a letter telling him why she dislikes him. He writes back, clearing up all misunderstandings and accusations. Jane runs away with Mr. Wickham, and Lizzie realizes that Mr. Darcy is not as bad a man as she had thought him to be. Function of Plot A plot is one of the most important parts of a story, and has many different purposes. Firstly, the plot focuses attention on the important characters and their roles in the story. It motivates the characters to affect the story, and connects the events in an orderly manner. The plot creates a desire for the reader to go on reading by absorbing them in the middle of the story, ensuring they want to know what happens next. The plot leads to the climax, but by gradually releasing the story in order to maintain readers’ interest. During the plot of a book, a reader gets

emotionally involved, connecting with the book, not allowing himself to put the book down. Eventually, the plot reveals the entire story, giving the reader a sense of completion that he has finished the story and reached a conclusion. The plot is what forms a memory in readers’ minds, allowing them to think about the book and even making them want to read it again. By identifying and understanding the plot, the reader is able to understand the message being conveyed by the author, and the explicit or implicit moral of the story. Exposition Definition of Exposition Exposition is a literary device used to introduce background information about events, settings, characters, or other elements of a work to the audience or readers. The word comes from the Latin language, and its literal meaning is “a showing forth.” Exposition is crucial to any story, for without it nothing makes sense. There are many ways to present an exposition, including monologues, dialogues, in-universe media (newspapers, letters, reports, journals, etc.), a protagonist’s thoughts, or a narrator’s explanation of past events. It is one of the four rhetorical modes of communication – the other three being narration, description, and argumentation. Examples of Exposition in Literature Exposition in Movies Example #1: Star Wars (By George Lucas) There are countless examples of exposition in many great movies and one of them, which comes across particularly well, is from Star Wars. The exposition in this movie is the opening title sequence, which gives information about the past events to the audience. The crawling text on the screen at the beginning of each movie in the series gives the audience every piece of information they need to understand the upcoming events in the film. The opening lines usually begin like this: “A long time ago in a galaxy far away, far away…” Exposition in Literature Example #2: The Three Little Bears (By Robert Southey) An exposition is typically positioned at the beginning of a novel, movie, or other literary work, because the author wants the audience to be fully

aware of the characters in the story. The famous children’s story entitled The Three Little Bears applies this technique of exposition. “Once upon a time, there were three bears. There was a Daddy Bear, who was very big, a Mama Bear, who was middle-sized, and a Baby Bear, who was very small. They all lived together in a little cottage in the middle of the woods. Their favorite breakfast was porridge. One morning, after they made their porridge, Daddy Bear said, ‘Let’s go for walk in the woods until it cools.’ Mama Bear and Baby Bear liked the idea, so off they went. While they were away, a little girl named Goldilocks came walking through the forest and smelled the porridge…” With the help of a single passage, the author of the story has given us an overview of the bear family, their residence, and information that sets the story in motion. Example #3: Othello (By William Shakespeare) All of Shakespeare’s writings contain excellent exposition examples. Take Othello, Romeo and Juliet, Henry V, and Richard III, and you will see how exceptionally well he used the art of expository writing. Here, two examples from Othello have been taken to elaborate the point. The opening scene in Act I of Othello shows a fierce argument between Roderigo and Iago, which helps build the interest of the audience. The audience realizes that Iago is persistently trying to convince Roderigo to be his accomplice in destroying Othello. The exposition in this scene plays the following roles:  It explicates Iago’s treacherous, spiteful, and scheming nature.  The main conflict of the play is revealed here. It revolves around Iago’s concealed bitterness towards his boss Othello who, in Iago’s opinion, is overlooking him for promotion.  It ascertains two basic themes of the play: racism, and that appearance is not always the same as reality. At the end of Act 1, the play gives the audience a few facts about Othello, including:  He is a very respectable man.  He had run away with Desdemona, Brabantio’s daughter.  He is a great general who is sought by Venice to defend it in the war against the Turks.

As is evident from the examples given above, exposition always gives us an insight into the characters’ personalities, and adds flavor to the tragedy and drama we see towards the end of the play. Function of Exposition The importance of exposition in literature, as well as in our practical lives, cannot be ignored. Examining the types of writing we come across in our daily lives shows us that almost all of them are incomplete without exposition. The fiction books, articles, and magazines that people read in their everyday lives essentially rely on exposition to connect the readers to the main story by giving them the background information. In most cases, a narrative or script loses its essence if not accompanied by an exposition. Not only is it important for bringing clarity to a script, but it is also vital to enhance its literary value. The true essence of a book usually lies in how the reader is introduced to the characters in it and, if done correctly, the reader automatically starts relating to them. Moreover, exposition is widely used for academic purposes in schools, colleges, and universities. Generally, students are asked to submit research reports and pass exams to establish their progress. The exposition here is keeping the academia updated on what you have learned so far. Also, employees are asked very often to put together business reports and memorandums to update their employers about their progress. Rising Action Definition of Rising Action Rising action in a plot is a series of relevant incidents that create suspense, interest, and tension in a narrative. In literary works, a rising action includes all decisions, characters’ flaws, and background circumstances that together create turns and twists leading to a climax. We find it in novels, plays, and short stories. Rising action is one of the elements of plot, which begins immediately after its exposition. Examples of Rising Action in Literature Example #1: Revelation (By Flannery O’Connor) In her short story, Revelation, Flannery O’Connor has used a great deal of rising action. The moment when Mrs. Turpin comes into the waiting room,

she becomes offended by the surroundings around her, considering herself higher than the homely and dirty-looking patients. We see a girl, Mary Grace, in a waiting room, in intense action showing her dislike towards Mrs. Turpin. She finally makes a physical attack on Mrs. Turpin by throwing a book at her. Mrs. Turpin consequently responds negatively, crying and showing anger. Example #2: The Hobbit (By J. R. R. Tolkien) The conflict begins in J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, as Gandalf meets Bilbo and asks him to play the role of a burglar in the dwarves’ expedition to recover the treasure of Thorin from Smaug. Rising action occurs as he agrees to act as a burglar during this adventure. His heroism begins merely by shouting to wake up Gandalf, who rescues the company from goblins, and then the action slowly intensifies when he finds the magic ring. Gradually, Bilbo overcomes difficulties by killing a big spider, and establishes his potential as a hero and leader. Example #3: Anna Karenina (By Leo Tolstoy) Leo Tolstoy, in his novel Anna Karenina, draws two major stories. Rising action of the primary storyline begins when Vronsky starts having passionate feelings for Anna instead Kitty. Vronsky and Anna meet each other in the train station, and begin their secret relationship. The action further rises while their obsession turns into a love affair, and Anna decides to leave her son and husband, to live with Vronsky. The second storyline is about Kitty’s refusal of the marriage proposal of Konstantin Levin. Further action rises as she moves back to the countryside in order to think about life, and faces inner conflict while considering her decision. Example #4: Twilight (By Stephenie Meyer) The rising action in Stephenie Meyer’s novel Twilight occurs as the Cullen family plays a vampire baseball game where Bella is a spectator. During the play, some rogue vampires, including James, Laurent, and Victoria approach them. James smells Bella, and the action rises. James chases Bella while the Cullen family strives to defend her. This heightened action ultimately creates a huge climax that consequently brings many things to a head, leading to the end. Example #5: Evermore (By Alyson Noel) Alyson Noel has written a number of novel series, Evermore being the first among them. This novel follows the adventures of the leading character, Ever, as well as a man named Damen, who helped her become an

immortal. Throughout the novel, readers learn that Damen – the first immortal – fell in love with Ever centuries ago. His ex-wife, however, continues trying to kill Ever’s incarnations in order to keep Damen apart from Ever. Her attempts in doing this develop the novel’s rising action, which in turn strengthens the love story of Damen and Ever, and creates suspense towards their final combat with Drina. Example #6: Snow White (By Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm) In Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm’s novel, Snow White, the rising action occurs when the Queen’s magic mirror warns her that she is no longer the fairest lady in the land; that, instead, it is now Snow White. Envious, the Queen orders her huntsman to take her stepdaughter Snow White away from the palace, into the forest, and secretly kill her. Fortunately, he cannot kill her, but leaves her in the forest, where seven tiny dwarfs find her. They bring her into their home, then another rising action occurs when the mirror tells the Queen that Snow White is still alive. Function of Rising Action The events of a rising action are generally very important, because the entire plot of a narrative depends upon these events for setting up the climax – a moment of ultimate excitement that eventually leads to a satisfactory resolution. For instance, an author writes a love story in which a moment comes when characters decide whether to stay together or break up – thus, rising action sets a stage for this moment by building up dramatic situations or conflicts. It further adds a layer of complexity to the plot for developing characters and climax. Climax Climax Definition Climax, a Greek term meaning “ladder,” is that particular point in a narrative at which the conflict or tension hits the highest point. It is a structural part of a plot, and is at times referred to as a “crisis.” It is a decisive moment or a turning point in a storyline at which the rising action turns around into a falling action. Thus, a climax is the point at which a conflict or crisis reaches its peak, then calls for a resolution or denouement (conclusion). In a five-act play, the climax is close to the conclusion of act 3. Later in the 19th century, five-act plays were replaced by three-act plays, and the climax was placed close to the conclusion or at the end of the play.

Examples of Climax in Literature Let us analyze a few climax examples in literature: Example #1: Romeo and Juliet (By William Shakespeare) In William Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet, the story reaches its climax in Act 3. In the first scene of the act, Romeo challenges Tybalt to a duel after he (Tybalt) killed Mercutio: “And fire-eyed fury be my conduct now! Now, Tybalt, take the ‘villain’ back again That late thou gavest me; for Mercutio’s soul Is but a little way above our heads …” As soon as he killed Tybalt, Romeo says: “O! I am Fortune’s Fool!” He realizes that he has killed his wife’s cousin. This juncture in the play is a climax, as the audience wonders how Romeo would get out of this terrible situation. Similarly, it qualifies as a climax because, after this act, all the prior conflicts start to be resolved, and mysteries unfold themselves, thus moving the story toward its logical conclusion during the coming scenes. Example #2: The Heart of Darkness (By Joseph Conrad) In Joseph Conrad’s novel The Heart of Darkness, the narrative reaches its climax when Marlowe starts his journey in his steam boat, in the direction of the inner station, and his final discovery upon reaching the station and meeting “Kurtz.” He was shocked to discover that Kurtz had abandoned all norms and morals of his civilization, after giving in to the savage customs of the wild Congo. Following this point in the novel, the mystery surrounding Kurtz is unfolded, and the questions in the mind of Marlow find their answers automatically when he sees the real situation. Climax as a Stylistic Device As a stylistic device, the term climax refers to a literary device in which words, phrases, and clauses are arranged in an order to increase their importance within the sentence. The following are examples of climax as a stylistic device:

Example #3: The Passionate Pilgrim (By William Shakespeare) See how William Shakespeare achieves climax in the passage below, taken from his Sonnet The Passionate Pilgrim: “Beauty is but a vain and doubtful good; A shining gloss that vadeth suddenly; A flower that dies when first it gins to bud; A brittle glass that’s broken presently: A doubtful good, a gloss, a glass, a flower, Lost, vaded, broken, dead within an hour.” The phrase “dead within an hour” is placed at the very end, as it marks the climax of the fate of beauty, which he introduces as “a vain and doubtful good.” Example #4: I Have a Dream speech (By Martin Luther King, Jr.) “This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the unalienable Rights of Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” This line from Martin Luther King’s famous speech, I Have a Dream, qualifies as the climax of the speech. It criticizes and rejects racial discrimination suffered by black Americans at the hands of white Americans. Function of Climax A climax, when used as a plot device, helps readers understand the significance of the previously rising action to the point in the plot where the conflict reaches its peak. The climax of the story makes readers mentally prepared for the resolution of the conflict. Hence, it is important to the plot structure of a story. Moreover, climax is used as a stylistic device or a figure of speech to render balance and brevity to speech or writing. Being pre-employed, it qualifies itself as a powerful tool that can instantly capture the undivided attention of listeners and readers alike. Hence, its importance cannot be underestimated. Falling Action Definition of Falling Action Falling action occurs right after the climax, when the main problem of the story resolves. It is one of the elements of the plot of the story, the other

elements being exposition, rising action, climax, and resolution. Falling action wraps up the narrative, resolves its loose ends, and leads toward the closure. Examples of Falling Action in Literature Example #1: Star Wars (by George Lucas) Falling action in Star Wars occurs after the rebels and Luke Skywalker discover a vulnerable section in the Death Star. It is up to Luke Skywalker to destroy the space ship following several failed attempts. Darth Vader virtually hits Luke’s ship; however, Han Solo saves his ship by shooting at Vader. Then, Luke uses The Force and destroys the Death Star against all odds, saving the rebels. Yet the story does not end here. The audience then sees the return of Han and Luke to the rebels, who receive congratulations for their heroic efforts. Then the falling action takes place, when these two characters win rewards and medals from Princess Leia for saving the day. Example #2: The Necklace (by Guy de Maupassant) In Maupassant’s story, The Necklace, the rising action happens when Mathilda Loisel and her husband get invited to a fancy ball. She then borrows a beautiful necklace from Madame Forestier, her friend. The story reaches its climax when Mathilda sees herself in full glory and realizes that she is not having it anymore. The falling action takes place when this couple is forced to live a poor life to pay the debt of the fake necklace they borrowed earlier. Example #3: The Cask of Amontillado (by Edgar Allan Poe) Another good example is in the famous story of Poe, The Cask of Amontillado. Following his wicked plan, Montresor invites Fortunato to his vault to taste the rare flavor of Amontillado, a type of wine. He makes a plan to keep Fortunato inebriated, ensuring that his glass remains full. When Fortunato starts coughing, Montresor asks him if he wants to go back, but intoxicated Fortunato insists on tasting more. The climax of the story occurs when Montresor chains him and buries him alive in a brick wall. Then the falling action follows this climax, where Fortunato regains consciousness and struggles to get free of chains to call for help. Before sealing the wall, Montresor throws a torch to see if Fortunato is alive to end the story.

Example #4: The Fault in Our Stars (by John Green) Another example of falling action is from The Fault in Our Stars, a novel by John Green. The story revolves around two teenage lovers, Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, who are cancer patients. The rising action takes place, when they start liking each other, and the climax occurs with their tour to Amsterdam, where they express their feelings and consequently their love blossoms. Nevertheless, their whirling romance comes to a halt, because Augustus’ health worsens, and he sees very few chances of his survival. The falling action follows with their return to Indianapolis, where Hazel decides to be with him to take good care of him. But, deep down she is aware of this reality that he has not much time to live. Augustus, on the other hand, remembers that he had planned to would write Hazel’s eulogy, but the situation reverses instead. Example #5: Romeo and Juliet (by William Shakespeare) The falling action of Romeo and Juliet begins following rising action and climax, which is reached when the lovers are killed. Then the parents and Prince discover the bodies of two lovers, and they agree to put aside their animosity in the best interest of peace. Function of Falling Action Audiences expect a low ebb after every great tide in order to give themselves a feeling of relief. This happens with falling action of the story or the play. In fact, it is the desire of the audiences to see the fruits of the labor of a hero or protagonist that satisfies them. If this does not happen, the audience stays unsatisfied, and the story seems incomplete. Thus, falling action serves as a rewarding element in a story or movie. In addition, it is like a road from climax to resolution, and if the road is vacant, the story may end abruptly. Resolution Definition of Resolution The literary device resolution means the unfolding or solution of a complicated issue in a story. Technically, resolution is also known as a “denouement.” Most of the instances of resolution are presented in the final parts or chapters of a story. It mostly follows the climax.

In certain mystery novels, climax and resolution may occur simultaneously. However, in other forms of literature, resolution takes place at the end of the story. Considering that it ends a story, resolution is an integral part of the conflict of the story. Examples of Resolution in Literature Example #1: Romeo and Juliet (by William Shakespeare) Capulet: O brother Montague, give me thy hand. This is my daughter’s jointure, for no more Can I demand … Montague: But I can give thee more, For I will raise her statue in pure gold, That whiles Verona by that name is known, … As that of true and faithful Juliet … Capulet: As rich shall Romeo’s by his lady’s lie, Poor sacrifices of our enmity … Prince: A glooming peace this morning with it brings. The sun, for sorrow, will not show his head … This is the final dialogue that takes place between Lord Capulet and Lord Montague. Seeing their beloved children, Romeo and Juliet, committing suicide for love, both the heads of the family regret their long enmity. Now both of them agree to end the dispute between their tribes to avoid future tragedy. Example #2: The Great Gatsby (by F. Scott Fitzgerald) “They’re a rotten crowd,” I shouted across the lawn. “You’re worth the whole damn bunch put together … “ Concluding the story “The Great Gatsby,” Nick makes his mind to return to Minnesota as an escape from the rich people. He knows that the rich people are engaged in morally worthless activities. That is why he is convinced that people in Gatsby’s circle are unfaithful. Example #3: The Catcher in the Rye (by J.D. Salinger) ” … That’s all I’m going to tell about. I could probably tell you what I did after I went home, and how I got sick and all, and what school I’m supposed to go to next fall, after I get out of here, but I don’t feel like it. I really don’t. That stuff doesn’t interest me too much right now … I mean

how do you know what you’re going to do till you do it? The answer is, you don’t. I think I am, but how do I know? I swear it’s a stupid question … “ The resolution in this story takes place in the final part of the novel. Holden, the protagonist, while living in a psychiatric facility, recounts the story. He provides readers with the details of his future plans. He informs us that he will go back home and attend school, meet his parents but only after enjoying the ride of a merry-go-round in Phoebe. Example #4: The Winter’s Tale (by William Shakespeare) Gentleman: One that gives out himself Prince Florizel/ Son of Polixenes, with his princess, she/ The fairest I have yet beheld, desires access… Leontes: What with him? he comes not/ Like to his father’s greatness: his approach,… Florizel: Most royal sir, from thence; from him, whose daughter His tears proclaim’d his, parting with her: thence/ A prosperous south-wind friendly, we have cross’d… Leontes: My lord, Is this the daughter of a king? … His tears proclaim’d his, parting with her: thence… Leontes: My lord, Is this the daughter of a king…” In these extracted lines from “The Winter’s Tale,” the resolution occurs when Polixenes follows Florizel and Perdita to Sicily. After he finds out the true identity of Paulina, Polixenes and Leontes reconcile and both the families become happy. Leontes is also reunited with his family and discovers that Hermoin is alive. Function The resolution is the final solution in literature. Almost all the genres of storytelling make use of resolution to end a story. Actually, resolution is required to wrap up a story, and it comes after the climax. Following a heart-racing and anxiety-triggering climax, resolution gives audiences the opportunity to relax. It brings all disturbing conflicts into order, and helps the central theme of the movie or novel to resonate. Its function of resolving the problem has made it highly significant. The story would be a disaster if the resolution is presented poorly.