What does the narrative arc outline?

The narrative arc outlines the progression of the story's structure, which includes key elements such as the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. This framework helps to illustrate how the plot develops over time, guiding the reader through the sequence of events that build tension and lead to the story's conclusion. Understanding the narrative arc is essential for analyzing how a story unfolds and how different elements within it contribute to the overall impact on the audience.

By focusing specifically on the structure of the narrative, this choice encompasses a broad understanding of how stories are crafted, allowing one to appreciate the intricacies of plot development within various genres and formats.