1. The Quest
The Quest is perhaps one of the most exhilarating and universally appealing plot structures. It involves the protagonist setting out to achieve a specific goal, facing numerous challenges, and undergoing personal growth along the way. Among the many stories following this structure, J.R.R. Tolkien’s "The Hobbit" stands out as a classic example. Bilbo Baggins leaves the comfort of his home to join a group of dwarves on a journey to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug. The story is engaging because it combines adventure with a transformational journey of self-discovery.
Writing The Quest
To write a compelling quest, outline a clear goal or treasure your character must reach or obtain. Introduce a variety of challenges or obstacles that test different aspects of your character’s abilities and personality. Don’t forget to include an almost impossible challenge just before the climax. This not only keeps the plot exciting but also allows your character to grow and evolve throughout the story.
2. Overcoming the Monster
This plot involves the protagonist setting out to defeat an antagonistic force which threatens the protagonist or their homeland. A great example of this is J.K. Rowling’s "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone". Harry faces the dark wizard Voldemort, who threatens the peace of the magical world. This storyline stands the test of time and will likely never be boring because it pits good against visible evil, creating a natural root-for-the-hero scenario. Some of the oldest stories in mankind’s history can be seen to follow this plot structure.
Writing Overcoming the Monster
It’s important to remember that your "monster" doesn’t necessarily have to be a literal creature. It can be any formidable antagonist or force that presents a credible threat. During the rising action of the story, build up the menace of the monster gradually to create suspense and give your protagonist smaller victories on their way to the ultimate confrontation. This builds anticipation and makes the final showdown more satisfying. The final battle should be brutal and, at some point, seem impossible to win. But that’s what makes the victory even more exciting!
3. Rags to Riches
It is perhaps impossible to find someone over the age of 6 who cannot repeat a rags to riches story! In this storyline, the protagonist starts off in a very poor or undesirable state, and through various events, ends up in a significantly better condition. Charles Dickens’ "Oliver Twist" is a quintessential rags-to-riches story. Oliver begins as a poor orphan who, after many trials, ends up in a loving and wealthy home. The appeal of this plot lies in its optimistic assurance that no matter the starting point, great things are possible.
Writing Rags to Riches
Begin with a character in a sympathetic, underprivileged situation to garner immediate reader empathy. Think Cinderella! Throughout the story, introduce characters, knowledge, or events that gradually help your protagonist improve their circumstances. The key is the transformation arc: ensure that each plot point significantly alters the protagonist’s situation, either for better or worse, leading to a dramatic improvement by the end. The journey of the character is the focal point of this storyline, so make sure your character changes and develops along the way.
Conclusion
All of these storylines, along with many other popular plot structures, resonate with readers because of the well-established patterns of conflict and resolution. Whether it’s a daring quest, a fearsome battle against a monster, or a transformative journey from poverty to prosperity, these plots provide a sturdy scaffold on which to build a compelling narrative.
The Quest is perhaps one of the most exhilarating and universally appealing plot structures. It involves the protagonist setting out to achieve a specific goal, facing numerous challenges, and undergoing personal growth along the way. Among the many stories following this structure, J.R.R. Tolkien’s "The Hobbit" stands out as a classic example. Bilbo Baggins leaves the comfort of his home to join a group of dwarves on a journey to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug. The story is engaging because it combines adventure with a transformational journey of self-discovery.
Writing The Quest
To write a compelling quest, outline a clear goal or treasure your character must reach or obtain. Introduce a variety of challenges or obstacles that test different aspects of your character’s abilities and personality. Don’t forget to include an almost impossible challenge just before the climax. This not only keeps the plot exciting but also allows your character to grow and evolve throughout the story.
2. Overcoming the Monster
This plot involves the protagonist setting out to defeat an antagonistic force which threatens the protagonist or their homeland. A great example of this is J.K. Rowling’s "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone". Harry faces the dark wizard Voldemort, who threatens the peace of the magical world. This storyline stands the test of time and will likely never be boring because it pits good against visible evil, creating a natural root-for-the-hero scenario. Some of the oldest stories in mankind’s history can be seen to follow this plot structure.
Writing Overcoming the Monster
It’s important to remember that your "monster" doesn’t necessarily have to be a literal creature. It can be any formidable antagonist or force that presents a credible threat. During the rising action of the story, build up the menace of the monster gradually to create suspense and give your protagonist smaller victories on their way to the ultimate confrontation. This builds anticipation and makes the final showdown more satisfying. The final battle should be brutal and, at some point, seem impossible to win. But that’s what makes the victory even more exciting!
3. Rags to Riches
It is perhaps impossible to find someone over the age of 6 who cannot repeat a rags to riches story! In this storyline, the protagonist starts off in a very poor or undesirable state, and through various events, ends up in a significantly better condition. Charles Dickens’ "Oliver Twist" is a quintessential rags-to-riches story. Oliver begins as a poor orphan who, after many trials, ends up in a loving and wealthy home. The appeal of this plot lies in its optimistic assurance that no matter the starting point, great things are possible.
Writing Rags to Riches
Begin with a character in a sympathetic, underprivileged situation to garner immediate reader empathy. Think Cinderella! Throughout the story, introduce characters, knowledge, or events that gradually help your protagonist improve their circumstances. The key is the transformation arc: ensure that each plot point significantly alters the protagonist’s situation, either for better or worse, leading to a dramatic improvement by the end. The journey of the character is the focal point of this storyline, so make sure your character changes and develops along the way.
Conclusion
All of these storylines, along with many other popular plot structures, resonate with readers because of the well-established patterns of conflict and resolution. Whether it’s a daring quest, a fearsome battle against a monster, or a transformative journey from poverty to prosperity, these plots provide a sturdy scaffold on which to build a compelling narrative.
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