Picture this: a figure cloaked in shadows, eyes burning with malevolent intent, fingers curled around a staff of power. This figure is not just any villain; they are the embodiment of pure evil, a character so dark and terrifying that they send chills down your spine. You've seen them as Voldemort in Harry Potter, Sauron in The Lord of the Rings, and Darth Vader in Star Wars. But what exactly makes these characters so fascinating and so universally recognized? They all represent the Dark Lord archetype, a crucial component of storytelling that has existed across cultures and history, adding depth and…
It's no surprise that William Shakespeare is considered one of the most influential and renowned playwrights in history. His works have stood the test of time and continue to be studied, performed, and adapted in various forms. But what sets Shakespeare apart from other writers? One word: tragedy.In this article, we will explore the unique characteristics of a Shakespearean tragedy, its themes, and why it continues to captivate audiences centuries later.Continue reading What is a Shakespearean Tragedy — Definition & Elements
The term “tragicomedy” is used to refer to things that incorporate multiple elements of tone and structure. But what is tragicomedy? We’re going to answer that question by outlining a tragicomedy definition, as well as a history of the term and some examples. By the end, you’ll know what tragicomedy is, and how it came to popularity.Continue reading What is Tragicomedy — Definition, Examples & Origins
Compound subjects are an important part of creating variety in sentence structure. They are subjects that work in tandem, with each noun contributing to what is being communicated in a sentence. Let’s break it down simply. Continue reading What is a Compound Subject — Definition & Examples
Many writers aim to immerse us into stories and worlds so deeply that we momentarily forget we are reading a piece of fiction. However, some writers aim to do the exact opposite. They expose the narrative elements at play, bringing them to the forefront of our attention. What does a story have to gain by reminding the reader they are reading a fictional work? This is the power of metafiction. Continue reading What is Metafiction — Definition, Examples & Functions
We’ve all heard the term “chick flick.” It’s typically used in a derogatory manner, referring to a movie that is lighter fare and ostensibly made for women. But although the term has a negative connotation, some movies dubbed “chick flicks” are some of the most beloved and powerful ever made. So, what is a chick flick? Continue reading What is a Chick Flick — Definition, Tropes & Best Examples
Humans have been telling stories for as long as they’ve been around. As such, the ability to tell a compelling story is vital for anyone, regardless of background, profession, or interests. And although stories can take an infinite number of forms, most are made up of common factors. What are story elements? Continue reading What are Story Elements — An Essential Guide for Writers
Understanding great storytelling involves understanding the human psyche. Expectations, anticipation, and suspense are all used to keep an audience or a reader engaged. A well-crafted story is pieced together to drive our curiosities, leaving us wanting to turn the page, start the next episode, or debate on the ending of the film we just walked out of. Few storytelling techniques tap into our curiosity (and frustration) like a well-executed cliffhanger. Spoilers ahead.Continue reading What is a Cliffhanger in a Story — And Why They Work
A darkened theater. The murmur of the audience fading as the lights dim. Anticipation palpable in the air. Suddenly, the curtain lifts and a different world comes alive right before your eyes. This is the magic of a play. From ancient Greek tragedies to modern Broadway musicals, plays have evolved and adapted to reflect the changing times and societies. They have and will continue to hold a special place in our culture and hearts.Continue reading What is a Play — History, Anatomy, Types & Examples
Have you ever watched a movie and been stunned by its comically anti-climactic ending? What about a TV show like The Simpsons where Grandpa Simpson frequently tells long stories leading to nowhere? These are both examples of a “Shaggy Dog Story”, an archetypal trope in literature, TV and film that continues to surprise audiences to this day. In this article, we’re going to go over its definition and examples throughout history. Let’s dive in.Continue reading What is a Shaggy Dog Story — Definition & Examples
