Söguþráðinn

Söguþráðinn is the central plot or narrative thread of a work of fiction, describing the sequence of events and their causal connections that drive the story from beginning to end. It includes the goals, obstacles, actions, and outcomes that link scenes and character decisions to the overall progression of the narrative.

Etymology and form: The word comes from saga ('story') and þráð ('thread'), with the definite article suffix -inn. The base form is söguþráður and söguþráðinn is the definite singular. In usage, it is often used to refer to the main plot in discussions of literature, film, and drama.

Function and scope: The söguþráðinn provides the main structure and sense of direction. It is typically differentiated from setting, which concerns where and when events occur, and from theme, which concerns underlying ideas. Plots can be linear or non-linear and may weave multiple strands and subplots around the main arc. A conventional portrayal includes exposition, rising action, climax, and resolution, though not all works follow a fixed template.

Usage: In Icelandic criticism, the term is common in descriptions of narrative craft. It is analogous to the English 'plot' or 'narrative arc' and is often discussed in relation to character development and thematic development.