Literary notes about Narrative (AI summary)
In literature, the term "narrative" is often employed to signify not just a simple recounting of events but also the method and style by which these events are interwoven, revealing the author's perspective and the work's structure. For instance, historical works may describe a continuous and evolving narrative to guide readers through complex events or shifts in tone, as seen when a narrative subtly changes character during a schism [1] or when it is meticulously crafted to impart a true understanding of war [2]. In fiction, the narrative can serve as both a vehicle for plot progression and a reflection of character insight, as when detectives or protagonists reveal their inner world through the gradual unveiling of their story [3] or signal personal transformation [4]. Across various genres—from epic histories to intimate personal accounts—the narrative remains central in shaping the reader's experience, anchoring the sequence of events in a distinctive artistic form.
- p. 900-926;) and observe how the color of the narrative insensibly changes, as the confessor becomes a schismatic.
— from The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon - Returning to the matter in hand I will endeavour by a continuous narrative of moderate dimensions to guide my readers to a true knowledge of this war.
— from The Histories of Polybius, Vol. 1 (of 2) by Polybius - Holmes and I drew closer to the fire, while the young inspector slowly and point by point developed his singular narrative.
— from The Return of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle - A new fear had been engendered in my mind by his narrative; or rather, his narrative had given form and purpose to the fear that was already there.
— from Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
