Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Cyclical plot structure refers to narratives that repeat certain patterns or themes throughout the story. It often starts and ends in similar ways, suggesting an ongoing cycle or repetition of events.
The central message or insight conveyed by a literary work. In cyclical plot structures, themes often revolve around repetition, fate, or the inevitability of certain events.
Circular Narrative: A type of storytelling where the ending connects back to the beginning in some way, forming a circular structure.