Elements of Narrative Structure: Characters, Time, and Space

Posted on Dec 1, 2024 in Arts and Humanities

Narrative Essentials

A narrative recounts real or fictional events experienced by characters within a specific time and space.

External Structure

This refers to how the text is organized:

  • Paragraphs
  • Chapters
  • Parts
  • Treatises
  • Books
  • Acts and scenes

Internal Structure

This relates to the content and event order:

  • Approach: Context setting.
  • Conflict (Nudo): The protagonist faces challenges.
  • Outcome: Conflict resolution and new state. Morals or lessons may be included.

Chronological Order

Events follow a linear timeline.

In Medias Res

The story begins in the middle, later revealing the background.

Flashbacks/Flash-forwards

The narrator shifts to the past or future.

Counterpoint

Multiple intertwining stories.

Narrative Point of View

External (Third Person)

  • Omniscient Narrator: All-knowing about characters and events.
  • Observer Narrator: Only reports observable actions.
  • Editor Narrator: Omniscient but hidden, creating an intermediary narrator.

Internal (First Person)

  • Character Narrator: The protagonist tells the story, offering a close but subjective perspective.
  • Minor Character Narrator: A witness recounts the events.
  • Mobile Point of View: Different characters alternate narrating (common in modern and coral novels).

Key Narrative Components

Space

  • Realistic Space
  • Fantastic Space
  • Symbolic Space (conveys a concept)

Time

  • External Time: Historical period.
  • Internal Time: Duration of story events.

Characters

The core of the narrative, driving the story.

By Statement

  • Main Character: Central to the narrative (can be individual or group).
  • Antagonist: Opposes the main character.
  • Secondary Characters: Supporting roles.

By Function and Evolution

  • Round Characters: Evolve and change.
  • Flat Characters: Remain static, often archetypal.

Narrative Voice and Text Types

The narrative voice recounts actions and events using verbs and temporal markers. Narrative texts often combine with:

  • Description: Detailing settings, people, and objects.
  • Dialogue: Characters’ conversations, presented in:
    • Direct style
    • Indirect style
    • Interior monologue
    • Free indirect style