autodiegeettic

Autodiegetic refers to a narrative perspective in which the story is told from the viewpoint of a character within the story itself. This term originates from the Greek words *auto* (self) and *diegesis* (narration), indicating that the narrator is also a participant in the events being described. Autodiegetic narration is commonly found in first-person narratives, where the protagonist or another key character recounts their experiences directly to the reader or audience.

In literature, film, and other media, autodiegetic storytelling creates an intimate connection between the narrator and the audience, as the listener gains access to the character’s thoughts, emotions, and subjective perspective. This approach allows for deeper psychological exploration and immediate immersion in the narrative world. However, it also carries limitations, such as potential bias or unreliability if the narrator’s perspective is flawed or manipulated.

Autodiegetic narration contrasts with heterodiegetic narration, where an external narrator (not a character in the story) recounts the events. While heterodiegetic narration can provide objectivity, autodiegetic storytelling often enhances emotional engagement and authenticity. This technique is widely used in autobiographies, personal essays, and character-driven fiction, where the narrator’s voice shapes the reader’s interpretation of the events.

The concept was formally analyzed by French literary theorist Gérard Genette in his 1972 work *Narrative Discourse: An Essay in Method*, where he categorized narrative perspectives to better understand storytelling structures. Autodiegetic narration remains a fundamental tool in storytelling, influencing how audiences perceive and connect with fictional or real-life experiences.