Erzählgerüst

Erzählgerüst is a German term that translates to "narrative framework" or "story skeleton." It refers to the fundamental structure and underlying components of a story, distinct from the detailed plot or specific events. Think of it as the essential scaffolding upon which a narrative is built.

Key elements of an Erzählgerüst often include the protagonist, their primary goal or conflict, the opposing force or obstacle, and the general arc of the story's progression. It's the conceptual blueprint that guides the writer and helps ensure coherence and thematic consistency. The Erzählgerüst provides the basic shape of the narrative, outlining the core relationships between characters and the central driving force of the plot, without necessarily specifying every twist and turn.

Understanding the Erzählgerüst allows for a focus on the essential message or theme of a story. It can be used as a tool for planning, analyzing, or even adapting narratives. By stripping away the embellishments, one can identify the core components that make a story function. This concept is applicable across various forms of storytelling, from literature and film to oral traditions and even game design. It emphasizes the foundational architecture of a narrative, highlighting its essential building blocks.