31Story-Structure

Structure of a Story

Exposition

Timeline

Complications

(Complications, on a small scale, mirror the overall story structure)

Obstacle

Rising Action

Falling Action

Outcome

Dénouement

(The crisis is a turning point where the main character triumphs or resolves the issue)

Like every general 'rule' in writing this structure has its caveats. In the overall story, it is the character's Outcome that is key. Think of instances where the character has likely perished or actually dies. Above writing and movies, think of the story of Christ where he perishes (at least in his earthly life), but the message lives.

Objective