How to study Prose Fiction: Structure

Understanding Prose Fiction: Structure

Narrative Structure:

Identify the exposition. This is where the author set the scene, introduces the characters and provides necessary background information.
Look for the rising action. These are the events that build up towards the most exciting part of the story.
Take note of the climax. This is the pivotal moment in the story, where the main character faces a major challenge or conflict.
Recognise the falling action. This is the part of the story leading towards the resolution of the conflict.
Understand the resolution. This is where the main conflict is solved and the story ends.

Point of View:

Identify the narrator of the story. Differentiating between first person, third person limited, and third person omniscient narration can significantly impact our understanding of the plot.
Distinguish between reliable and unreliable narrators. This can greatly influence how we interpret the events in the story.

Flashbacks and Foreshadowing:

Identify flashbacks in the story. These provide insight into a character’s past and can add depth to their motives or actions.
Look for instances of foreshadowing. These clues hint at what will happen later in the story, creating suspense and anticipation.

Pacing:

Pay attention to the speed at which the story unfolds. This can affect the tension and dramatic impact of the plot. Fast-paced segments often signify action or high emotion, while slower sections can allow for in-depth character or theme development.

Setting:

Recognise how the time and place in which the story is set can impact the plot and character development. This can also enhance the reader’s understanding of the theme.

Theme:

Determine the main themes of the story. Knowing the author’s key messages can enrich your understanding of the characters and plot.

Symbolism:

Identify any symbols or motifs. These recurring elements can carry deep symbolic meaning, providing insight into the themes or characters.

Close Reading:

Carry out a close reading of the text, taking note of specific details that contribute to the overall structure of the story.
Highlight or underline key sections in the text for more in-depth analysis later.

Quote Analysis:

Select important quotations that illustrate aspects of the structure (e.g., the climax, resolution, flashbacks, etc.).
Consider how these quotes demonstrate the author’s narrative techniques and the effects they create.

Comparative Analysis:

Compare the structure of the text with other works of prose fiction. This can broaden your understanding of the author’s unique style and choices.
Consider how the structure impacts the overall meaning and effectiveness of the story.