diegesis

Diegesis is a concept in narratology and film theory that refers to the world in which a story takes place. Derived from the Greek word for narration, diegesis encompasses the events, characters, settings, objects, and sounds that constitute the narrative universe. In film, diegesis contrasts with elements that exist outside the story world, such as commentary or narration from an external source.

Diegetic versus non-diegetic elements: Diegetic elements originate within the story world and are perceivable by the characters. This includes dialogue among characters, sounds produced by objects, footsteps, weather, and music that is heard within the scene, such as a radio playing in a room. Non-diegetic elements originate outside the diegesis and are heard or seen by the audience but not by the characters, such as a musical score composed for the film or a voiceover narration from an unseen guide.

Sound and music provide a clear distinction: source music is diegetic because the characters can hear it and recognize its source, while the film’s background score is non-diegetic, existing for the audience’s experience rather than the characters’ perception. Other non-diegetic devices include titles, captions, and external commentary.

Boundary cases and analysis: The line between diegesis and non-diegesis can blur—dream sequences, memories, or metafictional devices may complicate classification. Filmmakers manipulate diegetic and non-diegetic elements to shape realism, mood, and how viewers interpret the narrative, character motivations, and reliability of narration.