Final answer:
The correct word to complete the sentence regarding literary analysis is 'what,' as in 'What the plot refers to what happens.' Understanding plot helps reveal narrative structure and is essential in story analysis alongside character, setting, and theme.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question you're asking relates to understanding elements of a story, particularly the plot. The correct word to complete the sentence "What the plot refers to ________ happens." is what. In literature, the plot refers to the sequence of events or actions within a narrative. When you're analyzing a story, recognizing the plot is crucial because it allows you to grasp the narrative structure and the order in which things happen. This understanding is the foundation for deeper analysis such as identifying themes and motives, or understanding a character's actions within the context of their environment.
Plot is a fundamental component of most narratives and is closely related to the other essential elements: character, setting, and theme. In constructing an analysis, asking questions like "Who are the characters?" "What is happening (plot)?" "When and where is it happening (setting)?" and "How does it happen (plot mechanism)?" are important. These elements interconnect to give a story its meaning and allow for a thorough understanding of its components.
The plot's details—including scope, sequence, and pacing—can profoundly impact how you interpret a character's actions or the overall message of the work. Characters trigger events in the plot, and their actions, decisions, and development are integral to driving the narrative forward. A firm grasp of these concepts is vital for any literature analysis, whether you're writing a critical essay or discussing a book in class.