This is an essay about the 7 basic plot types that form the foundation of storytelling. If you've ever wondered why certain stories feel familiar yet captivating, or why some narratives resonate across cultures and time, this piece is for you. If not, feel free to skip it.

Introduction

Stories have been part of human culture since the beginning of time. As people have told these stories over generations, certain patterns have emerged in the way narratives are structured. These patterns, or plot types, appear in stories from ancient myths to modern movies. By understanding these plot types, we can better appreciate the stories we read and watch, and see how they connect to broader themes in human experience.

1. Overcoming the Monster

In this plot, a hero must confront and defeat a powerful enemy that threatens them or their home. The Harry Potter series is a classic example, with Harry facing off against the dark wizard Voldemort. Throughout the series, Harry and his friends must overcome increasingly difficult challenges, ultimately leading to a final confrontation with Voldemort himself. Another example is "Dune" by Frank Herbert, where Paul Atreides faces off against the Harkonnens and the Emperor, who threaten his family and the planet Arrakis.

2. Rags to Riches

This plot follows a character's journey from poverty or obscurity to wealth, success, or importance. "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald puts an interesting spin on this plot. While Gatsby does rise from poverty to extreme wealth, he ultimately fails to achieve his true desire - winning back the love of Daisy Buchanan. In a more straightforward example, Aang from "Avatar: The Last Airbender" starts as the last survivor of his people and rises to become a powerful and respected Avatar.

3. The Quest

In a quest plot, the main character and their companions set out to find an important object or reach a specific place. They face many challenges and temptations along the way. "The Phantom Tollbooth" by Norton Juster is a fun example of this plot. Milo, the main character, goes on a quest to return Rhyme and Reason to the Kingdom of Wisdom. The "Percy Jackson" series also uses this plot structure, with Percy often going on quests to save the world from mythological threats.

4. Voyage and Return

This plot involves the hero traveling to a strange land, overcoming the challenges it presents, and then returning home with new knowledge or abilities. "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" by Lewis Carroll is a perfect example. Alice falls down a rabbit hole into a bizarre world, has many strange adventures, and then returns to her normal life, changed by her experiences. "The Chronicles of Narnia" series by C.S. Lewis also exemplifies this plot type, with the Pevensie children repeatedly traveling to Narnia and returning changed by their experiences.

5. Comedy

Despite its name, a comedy plot doesn't always mean the story is funny. Instead, it refers to a story that begins with confusion or misunderstanding and ends happily with all conflicts resolved. "A Midsummer Night's Dream" by William Shakespeare is a great example. The play involves a group of characters whose relationships become tangled and confused due to fairy magic, but by the end, all misunderstandings are cleared up and everyone ends up with the right partner. While not a perfect fit, "The Stand In" by Lily Chu has elements of this plot type, with the protagonist navigating misunderstandings and complications before reaching a satisfying resolution.

6. Tragedy

In contrast to comedy, a tragedy follows a main character's downfall, often because of a fatal flaw or mistake. "Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare is one of the most famous tragedies. The two young lovers are kept apart by their feuding families, and a series of misunderstandings and rash decisions lead to their untimely deaths. While not a full tragedy, "The Great Gatsby" also has strong tragic elements, with Gatsby's pursuit of an idealized past leading to his downfall.

7. Rebirth

In a rebirth plot, an important event forces the main character to change their ways, often becoming a better person. Tony Stark's journey in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is a good example of this plot. He starts as a selfish weapons manufacturer, but after being captured by terrorists, he has a change of heart. He becomes Iron Man and dedicates his life to protecting others, ultimately sacrificing himself to save the universe in "Avengers: Endgame." This is also a central theme in "Avatar: The Last Airbender," with Zuko's journey from antagonist to ally serving as another prime example of the rebirth plot.

Many stories combine elements from multiple plot types. For example, "One Piece" by Eiichiro Oda mainly follows the Quest structure, with Luffy and his crew searching for the ultimate treasure. However, it also includes elements of Overcoming the Monster and Rebirth in its various story arcs. This mixing of plot types allows for complex, engaging narratives that can surprise and delight audiences.

Why It Matters

Understanding these basic plot types is valuable for several reasons. First, it helps us see the connections between different stories. When we recognize a familiar plot structure, we can appreciate how each storyteller puts their own unique spin on it. This recognition doesn't make the story less enjoyable. Instead, it can deepen our appreciation for the writer's creativity within a familiar framework.

Finally, recognizing these plot types reminds us of the universal nature of storytelling. People from all cultures and throughout history have used these basic plots to share their experiences, values, and ideas. When we engage with stories, whether they're ancient myths or the latest blockbuster movies, we're participating in a tradition as old as humanity itself. This connection to our shared human experience is part of what makes stories so powerful and enduring.

Your Turn: Discover Your Story

Now that you understand the seven basic plot types (can you name them all without looking up??), take a moment to think about your own life experiences. Each of us has stories to tell, and they often fit into these classic patterns. But if we don't attempt to tell them, we'll never be good at it. Here's a simple exercise to get you started:

1. Reflect on a significant event or period in your life. It could be a challenge you overcame (waking up without an alarm), a journey you took (to the grocery store?), or a major change you experienced (new job, graduation, etc).
2. Consider which of the seven plot types best describes your experience. For example:
   • Did you face and overcome a major obstacle? - "Overcoming the Monster."
   • Have you worked your way up from humble beginnings? - "Rags to Riches."
   • Did you go on a journey that changed you? - "Voyage and Return."
3. Jot down the key points of your story, keeping the structure of your chosen plot type in mind.
4. Share your story with a friend or family member, or consider writing it down in more detail.

By thinking about your experiences in terms of these plot types, you might discover new insights or find a compelling way to share your story with others. Remember, your unique experiences and perspective make your story valuable and worth telling.

Whether you're writing a school essay, preparing a presentation, or simply sharing an anecdote with friends, understanding these plot structures can help you craft more engaging and impactful stories. So go ahead, start telling your story - you might be surprised at how captivating it can be!

Abandoning this post here,

Bradley