Three-act structure
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The three-act structure is a model used in
Dramatic question
As the story moves along, the plot usually progresses in such a way as to pose a yes or no question, the major dramatic question. For example, Will the boy get the girl? Will the hero save the day? Will the detective solve the mystery? Will the criminal be caught by law enforcement and brought to justice? Will the protagonist be murdered by the fugitive? This question must be answered in the climax of the story. The answer is often yes; no; maybe; yes, but...; or no, and what's more...[citation needed]
Structure
The first act, or opening narration, is usually used for
The second act, also referred to as rising action, typically depicts the protagonist's attempt to resolve the problem initiated by the first turning point, only to find themselves in ever worsening situations. Part of the reason protagonists seem unable to resolve their problems is because they do not yet have the skills to deal with the forces of antagonism that confront them. They must not only learn new skills, but they also must arrive at a higher sense of awareness of who they are and what they are capable of, in order to deal with their predicament, which in turn changes who they are. This is referred to as character development or a character arc. This cannot be achieved alone, and they are usually aided and abetted by mentors and co-protagonists.[2]
The third act features the resolution of the story and its subplots. The
See also
- Act (drama)
- Dramatic structure
References
- ISBN 0786887400.
- ^ a b c Trottier, David: "The Screenwriter's Bible", pp. 5–7. Silman James, 1998.
External links
- What’s Wrong With The Three Act Structure by former WGA director James Bonnet, via filmmakeriq.com
- What’s Right With The Three Act Structure by Yves Lavandier, author of Writing Drama and Constructing a Story