Final answer:
A character's response to conflict drives the plot through their decisions and actions, which form the rising action and moving toward the climax, and subsequently shape the falling action towards the conclusion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The character's response to conflict is pivotal in developing the plot of a narrative. Each action that a character chooses in response to a challenge or danger propels the story forward, leading to subsequent events and ultimately building towards a climax. For example, in the scenario presented, if a character decides to confront a problem—such as running from a threat like a tiger or establishing a new life after abandonment—this decision leads to a series of events known as the rising action. This rising action escalates the tension and propels the narrative towards the climax. Similarly, a character's response to the aftermath of a climax defines the falling action, where the story begins to wrap up and lead towards its resolution or conclusion.