Table of Contents

Writing About Plot and Characters Level 7

Introduction

Have you ever read a book and found yourself completely absorbed in the story? Understanding the plot and characters is essential to appreciating any narrative. In this article, we’ll explore how to write about the plot and characters of the book you’re reading, helping you gain deeper insights into how the story develops.

Definition and Concept

The plot is the sequence of events that make up a story, while the characters are the individuals who populate that story. Together, they create the narrative that engages readers and conveys the author’s message.

Relevance:

  • Literature: Analyzing plot and characters enhances comprehension and appreciation of texts.
  • Creative Writing: Understanding these elements improves your own storytelling skills.

Historical Context or Origin​

Plot and character analysis has roots in ancient storytelling traditions, where oral histories were passed down through generations. The Greeks formalized these concepts in their plays, with Aristotle’s ‘Poetics’ outlining key elements of drama, including plot structure and character development.

Understanding the Problem

To write effectively about plot and characters, consider the following steps:
1. Identify the main events that drive the story forward.
2. Analyze the characters’ motivations, relationships, and growth throughout the narrative.

Methods to Solve the Problem with different types of problems​

Method 1: Plot Summary

  • Outline the main events in chronological order.
  • Highlight key turning points and conflicts.
  • Conclude with the resolution and its impact on the characters.

    • Example:
    In ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’, Harry discovers he is a wizard, faces challenges at Hogwarts, and ultimately confronts Voldemort. This journey shapes Harry from an insecure boy into a confident hero.

    Method 2: Character Analysis

  • Choose a character to focus on.
  • Discuss their traits, motivations, and how they change throughout the story.

    • Example:
    In ‘The Great Gatsby’, Jay Gatsby is driven by his love for Daisy, which leads to his rise and tragic fall. His character reflects themes of ambition and the American Dream.

    Exceptions and Special Cases​

  • Unreliable Narrators: Sometimes, characters may not be truthful. This can affect how you interpret the plot and character motivations.
  • Non-linear Narratives: In stories where events are not in chronological order, pay attention to how this affects character development and plot understanding.

    • Step-by-Step Practice​

    Practice Task 1: Write a plot summary of your favorite book in five sentences.

    Practice Task 2: Choose a character from a book and write a paragraph analyzing their motivations and growth.

    Examples and Variations

    Example 1:
    In ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’, the plot revolves around Scout Finch’s childhood in the racially charged South, while her father, Atticus Finch, represents morality and justice.
    Example 2:
    In ‘The Hunger Games’, Katniss Everdeen’s evolution from a survivalist to a revolutionary leader illustrates her strength and resilience against oppressive systems.

    Interactive Quiz with Feedback System​

    You do not have access to this page.

    If you are not a subscriber, please click here to subscribe.
    OR

    Common Mistakes and Pitfalls

    • Focusing too much on summary rather than analysis.
    • Neglecting to connect character actions to the plot.
    • Overlooking minor characters who influence the main narrative.

    Tips and Tricks for Efficiency

    • Use character maps to visualize relationships and traits.
    • Keep a timeline of plot events for reference.
    • Discuss your thoughts with peers to gain different perspectives.

    Real life application

    • Critical thinking: Analyzing stories enhances your ability to evaluate arguments and perspectives in real life.
    • Creative writing: Understanding plot and character can improve your own storytelling.
    • Communication skills: Articulating thoughts about literature helps in discussions and presentations.

    FAQ's

    Focus on their traits, motivations, relationships, and how they evolve throughout the story.
    Look for the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution in the story.
    Absolutely! Minor characters can greatly influence the plot and main characters’ development.
    Re-read sections or summarize them to clarify events and character motivations.
    Practice regularly, read diverse genres, and seek feedback from teachers or peers.

    Conclusion

    Writing about plot and characters enriches your understanding of literature. By analyzing these elements, you can appreciate the depth of stories and enhance your own writing skills.

    References and Further Exploration

    • Book: ‘How to Read Literature Like a Professor’ by Thomas C. Foster.
    • Website: Literary Devices for understanding plot and character terms.

    Like? Share it with your friends

    Facebook
    Twitter
    LinkedIn

    Filter

    • Category

    • Levels

    • Subject