What does plot refer to in literary terms?

Plot in literary terms refers to the action or sequence of events that occur within a story. It encompasses the main storyline and involves how the events unfold, including the exposition (introduction of characters and setting), rising action (development of conflict), climax (turning point), falling action (winding down of the story), and resolution (conclusion). This structure helps to engage readers and drive the narrative forward by creating tension and resolution.

Understanding plot is essential for analyzing any literary work, as it allows readers to follow the storyline and understand the relationships between characters and events throughout the narrative. In contrast, the other options focus on different elements of literature, such as character development, poetic structure, and narrative resolution—all of which may interact with the plot but do not define it.