Layers of Meaning in a Work of Fiction:
The basic framework of a fictional story is the plot structure. Plot structure consists of establishing the setting, background, and initial characters in what is called the Exposition. The author then creates a Rising Action by introducing new characters, conflicts, and settings. The work Climaxes with a pivotal plot turning point or discovery after which there is a Falling Action - or that which follows this climatic point in the story. The work will end with what is called a Resolution. This is the first layer of meaning in a work of fiction: character, setting, conflict, plot framework. More sophisticated readers should begin to see the second layer of meaing in a work of fiction. This layer presents theme (underlying message(s)), symbolism, and stylistic elements which enhance the story line such as syntax and figurative language. The third layer of meaning presents what is called Incongruity into the story. This is what creates tension, complexity, and interest. These are the "ahh haaa' moments in a work. Incongruity is formed by using irony, paradox, juxtapostion, antithesis, sarcasm and fallacy. It is the unexpected "twist" or hidden truth. Click on the below document for a listing of literary terms that are applied to analyzing style and incongruity in a work of fiction.
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Writing about LiteratureIn the academic application of Fictional Analysis there are really three main types of genres: Critique, Literary Analysis, and Style Analysis.
Critique address whether a work should be praised or criticized. Academic literary critiques also include plot summaries, and details about plot structure and style. They typically give biographical information about the author as well. Literary Analysis focuses on the plot elements in the work. Text quotes are used as examples of support. In order to explain these elements a commentary follows the quote explaining how the quote supports this development. The new Texas required STAAR test requires that students write a literary analysis on the 11th grade EOC. The reading responses on the reading portion of the 9th, 10th, and 11th grade EOCs all require this type of process as well. Style Analysis is the analysis of how an author uses stylistic devices to enhance or develop a given plot element. This requires the identification of literary strategies and the discussion of how these strategies develop certain desired affects by the author. Style Analysis will be an essay on the AP Literature and Composition Test. Refer to the below document to see the kinds of affects that a stylistic element might create:
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Analysis Samples and ExercisesThere are are researched strategies that help students engage in the reading and analysis process. I have put together some of my favorite in the below Hightower High School English Department Toolkit. Reading strategies are located in the first half of the manual.
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