Suspense
Definition:
An intense feeling the reader or audience goes through while waiting for the outcome of events to happen. This technique leaves the reader wanting more and being on the edge of their seat. Depending on the amount of suspense used, it can lead to a reader or audience to not stop until they find out information. A sequence of events will happen while leading to the climax to keep the reader hooked while the story is developed.
Example from Count of Monte Cristo:
From the time Edmond Dantes escapes from prison, the reader is left in suspense. The Count’s arranged duel with Albert, the murders taking place in the Villefort household, and the kidnapping of Danglers at the end are all examples of suspense. Almost every event that takes place after the Count’s new identity is established can be considered suspenseful.
Function:
Due to the fact the book does not have a true climax, Dumas uses suspense throughout the whole novel to keep the reader interested and entertained. Without the use of suspense, the reader could lose interest fairly quickly because nothing is keeping the reader’s attention.
Another Example:
In Shakespeare’s Othello, he uses dramatic irony to create suspense in the work. A malevolent Iago is the villain who creates jealousy in Othello to try to destroy his life and career by persuading him that his wife is unfaithful. The reader knows that Othello’s wife is not guilty and that Iago has ill intentions toward Othello. But, Othello is ignorant of this fact, thus creating suspense throughout the play.
Original Mnemonic:
S: Subtle
U: Unexpected
S: Series
P: Providing
E: Exciting
N: Narration
S: Supporting
E: (the) Ending
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