Purpose:
The primary purpose of narrative discourse is to tell a story or recount events. It aims to engage the reader by weaving a series of events into a coherent and compelling story. Through narrative discourse, writers and speakers can share experiences, convey messages, entertain, and sometimes provide insights or moral lessons.
Characteristics:
Narrative discourse possesses specific characteristics that differentiate it from other types of discourse. These characteristics are essential for creating a structured and engaging story.
- Chronological Order:
Events are typically presented in the order they occurred, which helps in maintaining a logical flow. This sequential structure allows the audience to follow the progression of events naturally. However, some narratives might use flashbacks or flash-forwards to enhance the storytelling, but the primary timeline is usually linear. - Includes Characters:
Characters are the individuals who take part in the story. They can be people, animals, or even inanimate objects given human traits. Characters are essential as they drive the plot forward and engage the reader’s emotions and imagination. Well-developed characters with distinct personalities, motivations, and growth are crucial for a compelling narrative. - Setting:
The setting provides the backdrop against which the story unfolds. It includes the time, location, and environment where the events take place. A vivid and well-described setting helps readers visualize the scenes and enhances the overall atmosphere of the narrative. - Plot:
The plot is the sequence of events that make up the story. It typically includes:
- Exposition: Introduction of the characters, setting, and initial situation.
- Rising Action: Series of events and conflicts that build tension and develop the story.
- Climax: The turning point or the most intense moment in the story.
- Falling Action: Events that follow the climax and begin to resolve conflicts.
- Resolution: The conclusion where the story’s conflicts are resolved, and the story ends.
- Clear Sequence of Events:
A clear sequence of events ensures that the story is easy to follow and understand. It maintains the logical flow from the beginning to the end, guiding the reader through the narrative without confusion.
Example:
A novel, a short story, or an autobiography are classic examples of narrative discourse. Each of these forms uses the characteristics of narrative discourse to tell a story or recount events.
Example Explained:
- Novel:
A novel like “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee exemplifies narrative discourse. The story follows Scout Finch, her brother Jem, and their father Atticus Finch in the town of Maycomb, Alabama. The narrative is told from Scout’s perspective, recounting events in a chronological order with well-developed characters, a vivid setting, and a structured plot that addresses themes of racism and moral growth. - Short Story:
In a short story such as “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson, the narrative quickly establishes characters and setting, leading up to a climactic and shocking ending. The clear sequence of events builds suspense, keeping the reader engaged throughout the brief narrative. - Autobiography:
An autobiography like “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank recounts the real-life experiences of Anne Frank during World War II. The narrative structure provides a chronological account of her life in hiding, offering insights into her thoughts, feelings, and the events she witnessed.
Conclusion
Narrative discourse is a powerful tool for storytelling. By following a chronological order and incorporating essential elements like characters, setting, and plot, it creates engaging and immersive stories. Whether in novels, short stories, or autobiographies, narrative discourse helps convey experiences and messages in a compelling and memorable way.
