What Is Exposition in Literature

Exposition is a literary term that refers to the part of a story that sets the stage for the drama to follow: it introduces the theme, setting, characters, and circumstances at the story’s beginnings. To understand what exposition is, look at how the writer sets the scene for the story and the characters within it. Read through the first few paragraphs or pages where the author gives a description of the setting and the mood before the action takes place. In the story of Cinderella, the exposition goes something like this: Once upon a time, in a land far away, a young girl was born to very loving parents. The happy parents named the child Ella. Sadly, Ellas mother died when the child was very young. Over the years, Ellas father became convinced that the young and beautiful Ella needed a mother figure in her life. One day, Ellas father introduced a new woman into her life, and Ellas father explained that this strange woman was to become her stepmother. To Ella, the woman seemed cold and uncaring. This passage sets the stage for the action to come, alluding to the notion that Ellas happy life might be about to change for the worse. You get both a feeling for Ellas sense of unease and the fathers desire to provide for his daughter, but are left wondering what will happen. A strong exposition evokes feelings and emotion within the reader. Styles of Exposition The example above shows one way to provide background information for a story, but authors can also present information without stating the situation outright, as with understanding the thoughts of the main character. This passage from Hansel and Gretel shows exposition from Hansels own thoughts and actions: Young Hansel shook the basket he clutched in his right hand. It was almost empty. He wasnt sure what he would do when the bread crumbs ran out, but he was certain that he did not want to alarm his little sister, Gretel. He glanced down at her innocent face and wondered how their wicked mother could be so cruel. How could she kick them out of their home? How long could they possibly survive in this dark forest? In the example above, we understand the background of the story because the main character is thinking about their circumstances. We get a feeling of despair coming from multiple occurrences, including the mother kicking the children out and the fact that Hansels breadcrumbs are running out. We also get a feeling of responsibility; Hansel wants to protect his sister from the fear of the unknown and protect her from whatever is in the dark forest. We can also derive background information from a conversation that takes place between two characters, such as this dialogue from the classic fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood: You will need to wear the best red cloak I gave you, the mother said to her daughter. And be very careful as you want to grandmothers house. Dont veer off the forest path, and dont talk to any strangers. And be sure to look out for the big bad wolf!Is grandmother very sick? the young girl asked.She will be much better after she sees your beautiful face and eats the treats in your basket, my dear.I am not afraid, Mother, the young girl answered. I have walked the path many times. The wolf does not frighten me. We can pick up a lot of information about the characters in this story, just by witnessing the conversation between mother and child. We can also predict that something is about to occur and that event will most likely involve that big bad wolf. While the exposition usually appears at the beginning of a book, there can be exceptions. In some books, for example, you may find that exposition takes place through flashbacks that a character experiences. While the story might be set in the main characters current and somewhat stable life, their flashbacks give vital information that sets the scene for something that might be an internal struggle that will surface within the remainder of the story.

Child Abuse- a Child Called It - 1727 Words

In American society today we fail to address several issues that need to be addressed. Unfortunately, child abuse is one of the major issues that our country is plagued with, yet we neglect to bring this to the attention of the entire nation. It is often over looked because everyone has a different view of what exactly defines child abuse. The International Child Abuse Network (ICAN) uses four basis catigories to docunment the child abuse cases. They are: emotional abuse, neglect, physical abuse, and sexual abuse. I will be describing the first three. Emotional Abuse, (also known as: Verbal abuse, mental abuse, and psychological cruelty) includes acts or the failures to act by parents or caretakers that have caused or could cause†¦show more content†¦For example, statistics on approximately 20 percent of fatalities in 2002 were reported from health departments and fatality review boards, compared to 11.4 percent for 2001, an indication of greater attention directed towards the issue and better organization of the data that was collected among agencies has obviously been handled with a little more relevancy. The statistics above bring to my attention that society has as much responsibility in contributing to child abuse as the person that is actually committing the act of abuse. It is a vicious cycle that can be stopped, but has not been stopped for reasons discussed below. Massive numbers of children are affected by these heinous crimes who live on to possibly become abusers themselves. The hatred is passed on to further generations, and with out even noticing, society turns its back and uses the irresponsible excuse what happens behind closed doors is none of my business. The fact of the matter is, that children have been have been forced to accept being punished for the sick pleasures of others through intimidation, isolation, and guilt. I have been reading a book called A Child Called It. This is the story of a young boy named David Pelzer who, in order to survive, must triumph over the truly horrendous abuse inflicted by his mother. The excessive use ofShow MoreRelatedEssay Child Abuse in A Child Called It by Dave Pelzer1710 Words   |  7 PagesUnfortunately, child abuse is one of the major issues that our country is plagued with, yet we neglect to bring this to the attention of the entire nation. It is often over looked because everyone has a different view of what exactly defines child abuse. The International Child Abuse Network (ICAN) uses four basis categories to docunment the child abuse cases. They are: emotional abuse, neglect, physical abuse, and sexual abuse. I will be describing the first three. Emotional Abuse, (also knownRead More Child Abuse and the Importance of Belonging Discussed in David Pelzers A Child Called It1689 Words   |  7 PagesA Child Called It explores the traumatic story of child abuse and how the choices made by one person affects another’s sense of belonging. The story is only from one point of view as it’s a biography, written by the man who experienced trauma at such a tender age. David Pelzer, as a child, dealt with rejection daily and not only from his mother but classmates, teachers and ultimately his biggest enemy, himself. A Child Called It, as the title denotes depreciation and an impersonal relationshipRead MoreEssay on Severe Childhood Abuse in A Child Called It882 Words   |  4 Pagesendure a form of abuse. Some experience emotional abuse while others experience physical abuse. Other children, like Dave Pelzer, are faced with both. Dave had to grow up in a family of two alcoholic parents. He was severely beaten and tortured by his mother and was neglected by his father. Dave had to spend his childhood in fear of his life. Although sad, his story gives others hope that they too can experience an abusive childhood and live to tell about it. A Child Called It is a book aboutRead MoreA thesis paper on child abuse with a look into Dave Pelzers autobiography A Child Called IT Outlines various types of child abuse and prevention suggestions.3133 Words   |  13 PagesTitled Child Abuse.A thesis paper on child abuse with a look into Dave Pelzers autobiography United States more than three children die as a result of child abuse in the home. That is more than 1,000 children a year and most of these children are under the age of six. (http://www.childhelpusa.org/child/links.htm) You may be wondering, what exactly is child abuse? Of what does it consist? Are there different types? What are the signs? Read on to find all the answers and take a look into the lifeRead MoreThe autobiographical narrative, A Child Called It by Dave Pelzer recounts the harrowing abuse he800 Words   |  4 PagesThe autobiographical narrative, A Child Called It by Dave Pelzer recounts the harrowing abuse he endured at the hands of a figure that should represent security and comfort-his mother. Between the ages of 4-12 Pelzer suffered mental, physical and emotional torment from his alcoholic mother, ostracizing him from his family. A dwelling that should symbolize a sanctuary for an innocent child instead became an abusive containment facility. In documenting the raw images of his scarred past, PelzerRead MoreChild Abuse1192 Words   |  5 Pages Doug mikel Child Abuse Sociology 111 Tues./Thurs. 8a-9:15a Tina Harrell 9/21/2014 Imagine living a life you fear, one you have to keep a secret. Always pretending to be happy and carefree when deep down thinking, Please don t let this day be the last. Living in a house where painful marks and scars are hidden by long sleeves, and jeans. Looking over your shoulder wondering when the next assault is going to be. â€Å"Almost five children die every day as a result of child abuse.  Ã‚  More than threeRead MoreAbuse and Heredity1429 Words   |  6 PagesAbuse and Heredity Research question: Is child abuse hereditary? There are many types of abuse such as alcohol abuse, drug abuse, domestic abuse just to name a few but of all the types of abuse there is one type of abuse that is probably one of the easiest to pass down and that is child abuse. Child abuse is easy to pass down because we look to what we know when were not certain what to do. The term for passing down child abuse is known as intergenerational abuse. There are four methods of childRead MoreThe Difference Between Child Abuse And Discipline1200 Words   |  5 Pages Do you know the difference between child abuse and discipline? Child Abuse is when someone physically and mentally hurts another person. Discipline is teaching someone or something to do the right thing. Child Abuse is very common in the United States. Many children suffer from bruising, swelling skin, and broken bones. Situations like this happen because of problems at home or personal problems. Parents at home abuse their children because of drinking and depression issues. In this crazy worldRead MorePsychological And Social Aspects Of Child Abuse895 Words   |  4 PagesChild abuse has been an ongoing problem throughout the years that can affect a child from infancy all throughout adulthood. There are three kinds of child abuse. The first one is emotional abuse, it involves the psychological and social aspects of child abuse. It is usually seen when a parent cares more about their personal needs and goals rather than their children. The type of parenting style is characterized as overt aggression towards children or intimidation and manipulation. The parentsRead MoreChild Abuse And Children All Over The World1689 Words   |  7 PagesChild abuse happens to children all over the world. There are four different types of child abuse. physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and child neglect. Approximately 5 children die everyday because of child abuse. child abuse can physically and mentally harm a child by having Symptoms of nightmares, depression, and isolation. These symptoms can continue into adulthood. â€Å"one out of three girls and one out of five boys will be sexually abused before they reach age 18†. nobody knows what

Gatorade commercial free essay sample

Fuel up, power up, or gas up when performing in any sport you will need something to keep you going. Gatorade is a drink that makes it look like you will gain a lot of energy when you take the product. Gatorade is a sports drink that is made to replenish your energy and is one of the most popular option. When looking at Gatorade commercials first, it is very appealing to the most popular athletes drinking Gatorade. It make it more appealing to see a great athlete using it. The Gatorade slogan Win from within has more of an emotional appeal. The clip of Michael Jordan in the 1995 NBA finals with a 103 degree fever, he had to be helped to the locker room but it was said to have been one of the best games of his career. With Michal playing in this clip it shows him very weak at times but his performance gets better when he drinks the Gatorade. We will write a custom essay sample on Gatorade commercial or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page This shows how Gatorade will enter your body make u gain the energy you need to get back in the game for a fresh start. Michael Jordan indorsing a product will get our attention because of his well-known status in the leagues as a great player. If Jordan can be sick and all he did was drink Gatorade to feel better it take a turn for others to play but, the catch is that the Gatorade wasnt the thing that made him feel better Jordan was taking other medication prior to the game so that he can play. The clip has its view of replacing its value for energy. Gatorade made it look like it was a recovery drink. When looking at Gatorade there numerically it is logically a good decision having the right amount of carbohydrates, sodium, potassium and few calories doing what water cant like giving energy and rebuilding muscles. The clip shows shots taking hat look normal when you are not at your best but the drink will get you back up to the top. The target of the clip wants the audience see one of the best basketball player as an athlete drinking the Gatorade before, during and after a game it is very appealing. Younger athletes will see it knowing how the famous athletes perform and will want to drink the series as well in hopes it will help their performance so it also has good credibility as well. In closing, Gatorade has many appealing factors to appeal to a target audience. Gatorades slogans, spokesperson and commercials has both an emotional and ogical appeal. The slogan Win from Within has an emotional appeal. Making athletes push themselves beyond what they thought they were capable of using Michael Jordan in an NBA final game no matter how hard you try never stop; keep going even if you are sick. Spokesperson has a credibility is appealing to younger athletes who want to be like their favorite athletes. Commercials give the target audience a logical appeal. When seeing what the drink can do for athletes it will only make sense for the individual to go out and buy that product. http://www. youtube. com/watch7F-XA94HhUbLo