How to study Prose Fiction: The Narrator

Understanding the Role of The Narrator in Prose Fiction

Recognise that the narrator is the voice through which the story is told. This may or may not be a character in the text.
Remember that the narrator’s point of view can greatly influence how the story is perceived. It can be first-person, second-person, or third-person.

First-Person Narration

Note that first-person narrators participate in the action of the story, often as a primary character.
Understand that a first-person narrator provides a personal and subjective viewpoint, and their reliability can often be questioned.

Third-Person Narration

Understand that a third-person narrator tells the story from a distance, often with a wider perspective of events.
Note the difference between an omniscient third-person narrator, who knows all about every character and event, and a limited third-person narrator, who only knows about certain characters or events.

Unreliable Narrators

Note that an unreliable narrator gives a version of events that might not be trustworthy, due to their limited understanding or possible distortion of events.
Understand that this technique can be used to create suspense or reveal a character’s thoughts and feelings in more depth.

Impact of Narrative Voice

Remember that the choice of narrator can affect the pacing, tone and mood of the story.
Look for how the use of a particular narrator helps to develop themes or communicate the author’s message.

Linking Narrative Style to Context

Understand how the narrative style can reflect the social or historical context of the novel.
Look for connections between the kind of narrator used and the writer’s intentions or the text’s themes.

Types of Narrators in Different Genres

Note how horror, mystery or romance novels may use different types of narrators for distinct effects.
Analyse the usage of narrative voice in relation to the intended audience or textual genre.

Exploring the Narrator’s Character

Pay attention to moments when the narrator reveals aspects of their own character through their narration.
Analyse the way the language and style of the narration may reflect the narrator’s personality, social status or mindset.