Plot twist

Definition

A plot twist is a sudden and unexpected change in the direction or outcome of the story, often catching readers off guard and reshaping their understanding of the narrative. These twists are commonly employed to create suspense, intrigue, or shock, enhancing the overall emotional impact of the story. In sensation novels, plot twists play a crucial role in maintaining reader engagement through surprising developments and revelations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wilkie Collins is known for pioneering the sensation novel genre, where plot twists are essential for creating intrigue and keeping readers engaged.
2. In Collins's works, plot twists frequently involve revelations about characters' identities or hidden motivations that dramatically alter the narrative's trajectory.
3. Sensation novels often include elements of crime and mystery, where plot twists reveal the true nature of events or characters involved.
4. Collins's use of multiple perspectives allows for diverse interpretations of events, making plot twists more impactful as readers piece together clues.
5. The surprise elements in Collins's stories not only entertain but also challenge societal norms and conventions of the time, encouraging readers to rethink their assumptions.

Review Questions

• How does Wilkie Collins utilize plot twists to enhance the reader's experience in sensation novels?
  • Wilkie Collins effectively uses plot twists to captivate readers by introducing unexpected changes in character motivations and story outcomes. These twists often challenge reader expectations and create a sense of suspense that keeps them engaged. By revealing hidden truths about characters and intertwining multiple perspectives, Collins deepens the complexity of his narratives and ensures that the surprises have a lasting impact on readers.
• In what ways do plot twists in sensation novels reflect societal norms and expectations during the Victorian era?
  • Plot twists in sensation novels serve as a mirror to the societal norms and expectations of the Victorian era by challenging established conventions related to gender roles, morality, and class. By introducing shocking revelations and unexpected character developments, authors like Collins provoke readers to confront their assumptions about society. This subversion can prompt critical reflection on issues such as deception, identity, and the nature of truth within a rapidly changing world.
• Evaluate how the use of foreshadowing contributes to the effectiveness of plot twists in Wilkie Collins's narratives.
  • The use of foreshadowing in Wilkie Collins's narratives plays a vital role in making his plot twists more effective by creating an atmosphere of suspense and anticipation. When subtle hints are planted throughout the story, they not only prepare readers for potential outcomes but also enhance their emotional response when the twist occurs. This layered approach allows readers to reassess previous events with new understanding after a twist is revealed, enriching their overall experience and engagement with the text.

Related terms

Foreshadowing: A literary device used to give hints or clues about what will happen later in the story, often setting up expectations that can be subverted by a plot twist.

Suspense: The intense feeling of anticipation and uncertainty regarding the outcome of a story, which is often heightened by plot twists that keep readers guessing.

Cliffhanger: A dramatic and suspenseful situation at the end of a chapter or scene that leaves the audience wanting more, often leading to unexpected developments in subsequent sections.