Prose Fiction: An Introduction to the Semiotics of Narrative

by Ignasi Ribó

This concise and highly accessible textbook outlines the principles and techniques of storytelling. It is intended as a high-school and college-level introduction to the central concepts of narrative theory – concepts that will aid students in developing their competence not only in analysing and interpreting short stories and novels, but also in writing them. This textbook prioritises clarity over intricacy of theory, equipping its readers with the necessary tools to embark on further study of literature, literary theory and creative writing. Building on a ‘semiotic model of narrative,’ it is structured around the key elements of narratological theory, with chapters on plot, setting, characterisation, and narration, as well as on language and theme – elements which are underrepresented in existing textbooks on narrative theory. The chapter on language constitutes essential reading for those students unfamiliar with rhetoric, while the chapter on theme draws together significant perspectives from contemporary critical theory (including feminism and postcolonialism). This textbook is engaging and easily navigable, with key concepts highlighted and clearly explained, both in the text and in a full glossary located at the end of the book. Throughout the textbook the reader is aided by diagrams, images, quotes from prominent theorists, and instructive examples from classical and popular short stories and novels (such as Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice , Franz Kafka’s ‘The Metamorphosis,’ J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter , or Dostoyevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov , amongst many others). Prose Fiction: An Introduction to the Semiotics of Narrative can either be incorporated as the main textbook into a wider syllabus on narrative theory and creative writing, or it can be used as a supplementary reference book for readers interested in narrative fiction. The textbook is a must-read for beginning students of narratology, especially those with no or limited prior experience in this area. It is of especial relevance to English and Humanities major students in Asia, for whom it was conceived and written.

Genres: Textbooks

160 pages, Hardcover

Published November 28, 2019

Reviews

[Avery · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is well organised in a logical and easy to understand format. It provided common and recent examples of each element and provided good points about how certain techniques and elements of story are used, without going into unnecessary detail. I loved that it was short and to the point and talked about things that most writing books don't.

Highly recommend the read if you are interested in fiction writing.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

To understand a college class my daughter is taking, I got a copy of her syllabus (she willingly gave it to me) so I could read the textbooks and stories. As an English teacher, I wanted to know what a college fiction class covered. WHAT amazing literature I have read in the last month, and this textbook is fantastic. I wonder if American students will notice the British spellings and if they will even pay attention to the author's background. That's something I find fascinating.

I am BEYOND impressed by the organization of the textbook. I love that in every chapter, with every term, there are literary examples. From the perspective of an English teacher who has read most of the books referenced, there are many "AHA" moments where I make the connections. I could teach terms all day, but using examples from Ribo's work to teach commentary, narration, or setting, I will have more credibility. I am taking copious notes as I read, as the info is full of good reminders for me to help my students.

Favorite reference/quote from the textbook, quoted from Picture of Dorian Gray: "The books that the world calls immoral are books that show the world its own shame."