Question

In literature, what is a contrivance?

A. A device used to force action in a story rather than letting events unfold naturally
B. The increase of tension within a story that drives the plot toward the climax
C. An unexpected drop in tension that ends the plot without resolving the conflict
D. A struggle or problem that causes the events in a story to move forward

Answer 1

A contrivance in literature is a plot device that forces action to move the story forward, often feeling artificial or forced, answer A. It's different from rising action, anti-climactic endings, or conflict, which are other narrative elements.

Step-by-step explanation:

In literature, a contrivance refers to a plot device or situation that feels forced or artificial within the context of the story. The correct answer to the question 'In literature, what is a contrivance?' is A. A device used to force action in a story rather than letting events unfold naturally. Contrivances are often used by writers to move the plot forward or resolve a conflict but can sometimes undermine the story's believability if they are not well integrated.

The remaining options in the question pertain to different aspects of a narrative. B describes the 'rising action', C could be related to an 'anti-climactic' ending, and D is the definition of 'conflict', which is indeed the major challenge that the main character faces and the force that drives the story. However, these do not accurately define what a contrivance is.

Answer 2

In literature, contrivance is a) a device used to force action in a story rather than letting events unfold naturally.

Contrivances often give a sense of artificiality.