heterodiegeettistä

Heterodiegetic is a narrative term used in narratology to describe a narrator who is outside the story world and does not participate as a character in the events they are narrating. In a heterodiegetic narration, the narrator exists independently of the diegesis, which is the fictional world of the story. This type of narrator is often referred to as an "all-knowing" or "omniscient" narrator, though the degree of knowledge can vary. They are able to present events from a detached perspective, offering insights into multiple characters' thoughts and feelings, or focusing on objective descriptions of actions and settings.

The key characteristic of a heterodiegetic narrator is their absence from the narrative's cast of characters. They are not a protagonist, antagonist, or any other figure within the plot. Instead, they function as an external voice guiding the reader through the story. This contrasts with homodiegetic narration, where the narrator is a character within the story, often telling their own experiences. Examples of heterodiegetic narration can be found in many classic novels where a disembodied voice recounts the unfolding drama without being personally involved. This narrative stance allows for a broad scope and a comprehensive view of the fictional universe.