Analyzing Textual Expression and Narrative Components

Textual Markers and Forms of Expression

Textual Markers

These are words that indicate the logical relationships between various ideas within a text. They function as varied linguistic elements.

Textual Forms of Expression: Oral vs. Written

Oral Expression

Oral expression is performed by speech sounds. It is considered the most natural form of expression, possesses a universal character, and has many distinct features.

Written Expression

Written expression is a surrogate form of oral communication. It is not universal, but it allows messages to endure in the text.

Characteristics of Oral Expression

• Nonverbal expressive resources.
• Wide range of articulation (or vocalization).
• Subjective order (often including ellipses).
• Interruptions and repetitions.
• Simple vocabulary.
• Use of interjections.
• Frequent use of pronouns.

Ways of Speaking

Oral expression can be classified based on preparation:

• Spontaneous: Occurs if there is no prior preparation.
• Non-Spontaneous: Occurs if the speech is planned in advance.

Conversation and Issuers

In conversation, thought and speech are virtually simultaneous processes, which often leads to the frequent repetition of certain characteristics.

Expression is classified based on the number of speakers (issuers):

• Collective Oral Expression: Occurs when there are multiple issuers.
• Individual Oral Expression: Occurs when there is only one issuer.

The Narrative

A narrative recounts facts, real or imagined, that happen to characters within a specific time and space. These facts are told by a narrator in a particular chronological order and from a specific perspective.

Elements of the Narrative

Action

These are the elements that succeed one another and give rise to the story. They must present a logical sequence, a motive, and subsequent development. Narrative texts typically feature a primary action and other secondary actions.

The Characters

Characters are responsible for carrying out the narrated facts. They can be:

• Key (Protagonists): Essential in driving the narrative or causing a turning point.
• Secondary: Whose function is complementary to the main plot.

Characterization

Characterization can occur at the beginning of the narrative or may be revealed gradually throughout the story.

Classification by Precision of Characteristics

• Type Characters: Respond to very generic features (stereotypes).
• Individual Characters: Possess specific, well-defined traits.

Classification by Evolution

• Flat Characters: Do not change throughout the story.
• Rounded Characters: Possess a variety of features and undergo change or evolution over the course of the text.

Time and Space

The narrative time refers to the time and duration of the action of the story. This duration can span a lifetime, a specific period, or a moment.