The Three Act Structure

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Introduction

The Three Act Structure is a popular narrative framework used in storytelling, particularly in screenwriting and novels. This structure helps to create a clear and engaging plot by dividing the story into three distinct parts: setup, confrontation, and resolution. In this blog post, we’ll go into detail on what the Three Act Structure is, why it’s important, and how you can use it to write a compelling novel.

Act 1: Setup

The first act, also known as the setup, introduces the story’s main characters, the setting, and the premise. This act is all about establishing the world and laying the foundation for what’s to come. During this act, the protagonist is presented with a problem or a challenge that sets the stage for the rest of the story.

The setup act should also include a inciting incident, which is an event that pushes the protagonist into action and sets the story in motion. This can be a small event, such as a character receiving a letter, or a larger event, such as a natural disaster or a crime.

Act 2: Confrontation

The second act, also known as the confrontation, is where the main conflict of the story is introduced and developed. This is the part of the story where the protagonist faces obstacles and challenges as they attempt to resolve the problem presented in the first act.

During this act, the protagonist will encounter several setbacks and obstacles, which will test their resolve and push them to their limits. The confrontation act is also where the protagonist will begin to face opposition from the story’s antagonist, who will stand in the way of the protagonist achieving their goal.

Act 3: Resolution

The third act, also known as the resolution, is where the story reaches its climax and the protagonist faces the final showdown with the antagonist. This is the part of the story where all the threads come together, and the protagonist must find a way to overcome the final obstacle and achieve their goal.

The resolution act should also include a denouement, which is a resolution or conclusion to the story. This can include tying up loose ends and wrapping up the story, as well as revealing the fate of the characters.

Masterpiece Example: “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen

Another great example of the Three Act Structure is Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”. In the setup act, the reader is introduced to the Bennet family and their five daughters, with a focus on Elizabeth, the second daughter. The inciting incident is the arrival of the wealthy and eligible Mr. Darcy, which sets the stage for the rest of the story.

The confrontation act takes place as Elizabeth and Darcy encounter each other at various social events and engage in a battle of wits, while also dealing with societal pressure and family expectations. The climax of the story occurs in the resolution act, as Elizabeth discovers the truth about Darcy’s character and the misunderstandings that have been holding them apart are cleared up.

The denouement of the story wraps up the events of the story and reveals the eventual union of Elizabeth and Darcy, as well as the resolution of other conflicts and relationships within the Bennet family.

Conclusion

The Three Act Structure is a useful tool for writers looking to create a clear and engaging story. By dividing the story into three distinct parts, writers can create a well-structured narrative that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. By using this structure, you can ensure that your novel has a clear and compelling plot, and that your characters are fully developed and your story is well-balanced.

Act 1: The Setup

The setup act introduces the main characters, establishes the setting, and presents the conflict that will drive the rest of the story. It’s the foundation of the story and sets the stage for what is to come. In this act, the reader is given a glimpse into the world of the characters and the situation they find themselves in.

Some key elements of the setup act include:

• Introduction of main characters and their backgrounds
• Establishing the setting and its significance
• The inciting incident — an event or action that sets the main conflict in motion

Example: In “Pride and Prejudice”, the setup act introduces the Bennet family and their five daughters, with a focus on Elizabeth, the second daughter. The inciting incident is the arrival of the wealthy and eligible Mr. Darcy, which sets the stage for the rest of the story.

Novel Key line:
“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.”

Act 2: The Confrontation

The confrontation act is where the main conflict is developed and the characters face challenges and obstacles. Tension builds as the characters work to overcome the conflict, while also dealing with other subplots and secondary conflicts. This is the longest act in the Three Act Structure and it’s where the bulk of the action takes place.

Some key elements of the confrontation act include:

• Development of the main conflict and subplots
• The characters facing challenges and obstacles
• Building tension and suspense

Example: In “Pride and Prejudice”, the confrontation act takes place as Elizabeth and Darcy encounter each other at various social events and engage in a battle of wits, while also dealing with societal pressure and family expectations.

Novel Key line:
“You have bewitched me, body and soul, and I love, I love, I love you.”

Act 3: The Resolution

The resolution act is where the main conflict is resolved and loose ends are tied up. This act provides closure for the characters and the reader, and can include the aftermath of the conflict and its impact on the characters. The resolution act should answer any remaining questions and provide a satisfying conclusion to the story.

Some key elements of the resolution act include:

• Resolution of the main conflict
• Tie up loose ends and provide answers to outstanding questions
• The aftermath of the conflict and its impact on the characters

Example: In “Pride and Prejudice”, the resolution act wraps up the events of the story and reveals the eventual union of Elizabeth and Darcy, as well as the resolution of other conflicts and relationships within the Bennet family.
Novel Key line:
“In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.”