* Plot: The sequence of events and their development.
* Characters: The individuals who populate the story and their motivations.
* Setting: The time and place of the story.
* Theme: The central idea or message explored in the work.
* Style: The author's use of language, imagery, and literary devices.
* Tone: The emotional atmosphere created by the work.
* Structure: The organization and arrangement of the elements.
* Symbolism: The use of objects or events with multiple meanings.
The total effect is not simply the sum of these individual elements, but rather the unique and complex interaction between them. A skilled author crafts their work in a way that creates a unified and powerful impact on the reader.
Key characteristics of the total effect:
* A sense of completeness and coherence: The work feels like a whole, with all the parts contributing to the overall meaning.
* Emotional resonance: The work evokes a strong emotional response in the reader, whether it's joy, sorrow, anger, or awe.
* Intellectual engagement: The work challenges the reader to think critically about the themes and issues presented.
* Aesthetic appreciation: The work is beautiful or interesting in its own right, regardless of its meaning.
Examples:
* The total effect of Shakespeare's Hamlet is a complex mixture of tragedy, revenge, and existential angst.
* The total effect of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice is a blend of wit, social commentary, and romantic longing.
* The total effect of Toni Morrison's Beloved is a haunting and powerful exploration of slavery and its legacy.
In summary, the total effect is the ultimate goal of literary art. It is the point at which all the elements of a work come together to create a meaningful and lasting impression on the reader.