elbeszélés

Elbeszélés is a category of prose narrative in Hungarian literature, used to designate a narrative work that presents a sequence of events involving characters, actions and outcomes. The term comes from elbeszélni, meaning “to tell,” with the suffix -és, forming a general label for narrative prose. In literary usage, elbeszélés can cover short stories as well as longer narratives that do not reach novel length.

As a form, elbeszélés is defined by its focus on events and causality, rather than lyrical compression or dramatic dialogue alone. It encompasses realist, historical, fantastical and autobiographical approaches, and it can be written in various perspectives, including first person, third person or multiple viewpoints. Typical elements include a plotted sequence, defined characters, setting and temporal progression, as well as dialogue and narration that guide the reader through the story.

Structure and style of elbeszélés tend toward clarity and pace, with attention to cause and effect. Narration may be objective or subjective, and the reliability of the narrator can be a deliberate artistic choice. Language tends to be economical and precise, serving the progression of the plot while allowing space for character insight and atmosphere.

In Hungarian literary terminology, elbeszélés stands as a central form of prose alongside other modes such as líra (poetry) and dráma (theatre). It plays a key role in the development of modern Hungarian prose and is taught in studies of narrative technique and fiction writing as a flexible, widely used vehicle for storytelling.