English Literary Terms Questions Medium
Point of view in literature refers to the perspective from which a story is narrated or told. It determines the relationship between the narrator and the events, characters, and themes of the story. Point of view can greatly influence the reader's understanding and interpretation of the narrative.
There are three main types of point of view commonly used in literature:
1. First-person point of view: In this perspective, the narrator is a character within the story and uses pronouns like "I" and "we" to tell the story. The reader experiences the events through the narrator's eyes and is limited to their knowledge, thoughts, and feelings. This point of view provides a personal and subjective account of the story.
2. Third-person limited point of view: Here, the narrator is an external observer who focuses on the thoughts and feelings of a single character. The story is told using pronouns like "he," "she," or "they." The reader gains insight into the thoughts and emotions of the chosen character, but remains limited to their perspective. This point of view allows for a deeper understanding of the character's motivations and experiences.
3. Third-person omniscient point of view: In this perspective, the narrator is an all-knowing observer who has access to the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters. The story is told using pronouns like "he," "she," or "they." The reader gains a broader understanding of the events and characters as the narrator can provide insights into multiple perspectives. This point of view allows for a more objective and comprehensive view of the story.
The choice of point of view in literature is crucial as it shapes the reader's engagement with the narrative. It influences the level of intimacy, reliability, and understanding of the characters and events. By carefully selecting the appropriate point of view, authors can effectively convey their intended themes, create suspense, and engage readers in a more immersive literary experience.