In literature, what is the term for who is telling a story?
Point of view is the perspective from which a story or event is seen or told. It can be first person, second person, or third person. The point of view affects how readers interpret the events and characters in a story.
Understanding Point of View
Point of View: the perspective from which a story is told. It is the narrator's position in relation to the story and can be first person (the narrator is a character in the story), second person (the narrator speaks directly to the reader), or third person (the narrator is an outside force) Objective Point of View: the narrator is an outside observer who cannot access any characters' thoughts or feelings. All events are described in a factual way. Subjective Point of View: the narrator is a character in the story and can provide their personal thoughts, feelings, and opinions about the events taking place.
Concepts:
What is the best point of view to write a story from?
- First-person
- Second-person
- Third-person Limited
- Third-person Omniscient
The point of view of a story can change mid-way through the story. In some stories, the narrator is not a character in the story and is known as an 'omniscient' narrator. The point of view of a story can be written in first-person, second-person, or third-person perspective.
Did you know?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using first person point of view in writing?
Draw a tree with eyes, a nose, and a big happy smile.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using third person point of view in writing?
What examples of first person point of view have you read or written?
What examples of third person point of view have you read or written?