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The 5-act structure is a format of dramatic structure commonly used in classical and Shakespearean dramas. It expands the three-act structure by dividing the narrative into five parts: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.
Five act structure is a formal plot structure that divides a story into five parts, called acts. These are usually the introduction or exposition, rising movement, climax, falling action, and catastrophe or resolution.
- The Introduction. Act 1 consists of two parts: The story is set up, including the exposition. The complication, also known as the inciting incident or the “exciting force.”
- The Rising Movement. Although sometimes called the Rising Action, Freytag's pyramid refers to Act 2 as the Rising Movement. Scenes in Act 2 delves into more detail about the complication introduced in Act 1, adding additional plot twists and character development.
- Climax. In Freytag's pyramid the climax of the story occurs at the midpoint of the narrative arc or just after. It is the story's turning point.
- Falling Action. The falling action are scenes that take place between the act, and the final act. The second half of the entire play beyond the midpoint is known as the counterplay.
- Exposition. To kick off your story, you'll need to introduce your main characters and the world they inhabit , thus laying the groundwork for the story ahead.
- Rising Action. Once your protagonist is on a journey to accomplish something, the story truly comes alive and things start to happen. This sets the stage for a series of events in which the character faces ever more challenging internal and external conflicts, and makes both allies and enemies.
- Climax. The climax in a story is the point where tension reaches its peak. It’s a pivotal moment or event that marks the point of no return for the character.
- Falling Action. Following the climax, the story's tension begins to wane as unresolved issues and minor conflicts start to find closure. This beat serves as a sort of decompression chamber, allowing both characters and readers to step back from the intensity of the climax, and process “all that happened.”
Jan 11, 2021 · 1. Exposition. Beginning of the story – “sets the stage” Prepares the way for upcoming events. Introduces the major characters. Establishes the setting. Reveals major conflicts in the story. Discusses the characters’ backstory, so readers gain insight as to why characters act or respond as they do.
Here are a few key points to keep in mind about each part of the structure: Act One: Setup – offers the introduction and inciting incident. Act Two: Confrontation – showcases challenges and character development. Act Three: Resolution – concludes the story and resolves the conflict.
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Jul 20, 2018 · Story structure is the order in which plot events are told to the reader or audience. While stories can be told in a wide variety of ways, most Western story structures commonly share certain elements: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.
