Writing Tips For New Authors (Part Three)
In the third instalment, we shall look at the Three-Act Structure of creating a story outline. This method divides the entire story into three major parts. Let’s continue below to find out in more detail what this means.
The Three-Act Structure
The Three-Act Structure is a popular method for outlining and structuring a story. It is based on the idea that a story can be divided into three parts: the setup, the confrontation, and the resolution. Each part has a distinct purpose and builds on the previous one to create a satisfying narrative arc.
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Act 1: The Setup The first act of the story is the setup. This is where you introduce the characters, their goals, and the setting. You also establish the central conflict of the story, which will drive the plot forward. The first act typically ends with a turning point, often called the inciting incident, which sets the story in motion and leads the characters into the second act.
Examples of the Setup:
In J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone," the first act introduces Harry Potter, his miserable life with the Dursleys, and his discovery of his true identity as a wizard. The inciting incident is when he receives his acceptance letter to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
In Stephen King's "The Shining," the first act introduces the Torrance family, their move to the isolated Overlook Hotel, and Jack Torrance's struggles with alcoholism and anger. The inciting incident is when the hotel's cook warns Danny Torrance about the hotel's sinister history.
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Act 2: The Confrontation The second act of the story is the confrontation. This is where the main character faces obstacles and challenges in pursuit of their goal. The second act is often the longest and most complex part of the story, with a series of rising and falling action as the character's situation becomes more desperate. The second act typically ends with a crisis or turning point, often called the climax, which leads into the third act.
Examples of the Confrontation:
In "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien, the second act involves Frodo and his companions' journey across Middle-earth to destroy the One Ring. They face challenges such as the Mines of Moria, the treacherous paths of the mountains, and the armies of Sauron. The climax of the second act is the Battle of Helm's Deep.
In "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins, the second act involves Katniss Everdeen's training and participation in the Hunger Games. She faces challenges such as navigating the deadly arena, forming alliances, and fighting other tributes. The climax of the second act is the rule change that allows two tributes to win.
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Act 3: The Resolution The third act of the story is the resolution. This is where the main character faces the final challenge and resolves the conflict of the story. The third act typically includes a final showdown or confrontation, often called the climax, followed by a resolution or denouement that wraps up the story and provides closure for the characters and readers.
Examples of the Resolution:
In "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, the third act involves the trial of Tom Robinson and the aftermath of the verdict. The climax is the attack on Jem and Scout by Bob Ewell, which is resolved by Boo Radley. The denouement shows the aftermath of the trial and the characters' growth and change.
In "Star Wars: A New Hope," the third act involves the final battle between the Rebel Alliance and the Empire. The climax is the destruction of the Death Star by Luke Skywalker. The denouement shows the medal ceremony and the characters' celebration and reflection.
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Overall, the Three-Act Structure is a useful tool for outlining and structuring a story. By dividing the story into three parts, it provides a clear narrative arc and helps the writer build tension and momentum throughout the story.