The event that sets the main conflict of the story in motion, disrupting the protagonist's ordinary life and propelling them into the central action.
Here's why:
* Disrupts the Status Quo: The inciting incident breaks the established normalcy of the protagonist's world, creating a need for change or action.
* Introduces the Conflict: It introduces the main problem or struggle that the protagonist will face throughout the story.
* Forces Action: It compels the protagonist to make choices and take steps to address the conflict.
Examples:
* In "Star Wars": The inciting incident is the attack on Princess Leia's ship by the Death Star. This event directly throws Luke Skywalker into the conflict with the Empire, leading to his journey to become a Jedi.
* In "The Hunger Games": The inciting incident is the death of Prim's goat and her volunteering for the Hunger Games in her sister's place. This sets Katniss on her dangerous path to compete in the Games and ultimately leads to her rebellion against the Capitol.
Key takeaway: The inciting incident is a pivotal point in the story, serving as a catalyst for the protagonist's journey and the unfolding of the central conflict.