Rising action is the part of a story's plot that occurs after the initial conflict or inciting incident and leads up to the climax, the story's turning point. During rising action, tension, conflict, and suspense build progressively through a series of events and complications that challenge the protagonist and develop both external and internal conflicts. This section forms the bulk of the narrative and is essential for engaging the audience by increasing stakes and deepening character development
. Key characteristics of rising action include:
- Increasing tension and conflict: The protagonist faces obstacles and struggles that escalate the central conflict, often both external (e.g., antagonists, societal pressures) and internal (e.g., fears, doubts)
- Character development: The challenges reveal character traits and growth, making the protagonist more relatable and their journey compelling
- Plot complications: New problems and twists arise, adding layers to the story and maintaining reader interest
- Build-up to climax: The rising action sets the stage for the climax, making its impact more powerful by gradually increasing suspense and stakes
For example, in Little Red Riding Hood , the rising action includes all events after she sets off to Grandma’s house up to her encounter with the Big Bad Wolf
. In a mystery, it might be the detective's investigation growing more intense; in a romance, the developing relationship between characters
. In summary, rising action is the narrative phase that builds momentum, tension, and emotional investment, leading directly to the story's climax
