Narrative

NARRATIVE TEXT

DEFINITION AND EXAMPLE

Definition:

The narrative text tells a story. It is meant to present a view of the world that entertains or informs the readers or the listener.

Social Function:

To amuse, entertain and to deal with actual or vicarious experience in different ways; Narrative deal with problematic events which lead to a crisis or turning point of some kind, which in turn finds 2 resolution.

Generic Structure of a recount text:

·         Orientation: sets the scene and introduces the participants.

·         Evolution: a stepping back to evaluate the plight.

·         Complication: a crisis arises.

·         Resolution: the crisis is resolved for better or for worse.

·         Re-orientation: optional.

Significant Lexicogrammatical features:

·         Focus and specific and usually individualized participants.

·         Use of Material Processes (and in this next Behavior and Verbal processes).

·         Use of Rotational Processes and Mental Processes.

·         Use of temporal conjunctions and temporal Circumstances.

·         Use of past tense.

EXAMPLE