CLT

Narrative prose tells a story through characters, plot, and setting. When reading narrative passages, identify the narrator's perspective, the conflict driving the action, and the author's purpose in telling the story.

First-person narration uses "I" and provides direct access to one character's thoughts and feelings. This perspective limits the reader's knowledge to what the narrator experiences and understands. Unreliable narrators may misinterpret events or deliberately mislead readers.

Third-person limited narration focuses on one character's perspective while using "he," "she," or "they." The reader sees events through this character's eyes but gains some distance from the character's immediate emotions.

Third-person omniscient narration provides access to multiple characters' thoughts and can move freely through time and space. This perspective allows the author to comment directly on events and characters.

When analyzing narrative prose, consider how the narrator's perspective shapes the reader's understanding. A story about betrayal reads differently when told by the betrayer versus the betrayed.

Expository prose explains, informs, or describes. Historical documents, scientific writings, and philosophical essays typically use expository prose. The purpose is to convey information or argue a position rather than tell a story.

When reading expository prose, identify the central thesis or main claim. Look for how the author organizes supporting evidence and anticipates counterarguments. Pay attention to the logical structure connecting ideas.

Classical philosophical texts often begin with definitions, proceed through logical arguments, and conclude with broader implications. Understanding this structure helps you follow complex reasoning.

Authors employ various strategies to persuade, inform, or move readers. Recognizing these strategies helps you understand both what an author says and how they say it.

Ethos appeals to the author's credibility or character. An author establishes ethos by demonstrating expertise, fairness, and shared values with the audience.

Pathos appeals to emotion. Authors use vivid imagery, personal anecdotes, and emotionally charged language to engage readers' feelings.

Logos appeals to reason and logic. Authors use evidence, examples, and logical arguments to support their claims.

Most effective prose combines all three appeals. A philosophical argument might establish the author's expertise, use logical reasoning, and conclude with an emotionally compelling vision of the implications.