A dual narrative story structure is a narrative technique that tells a story using two distinct viewpoints or timelines.
Based on the provided reference, a dual narrative is a form of narrative that:
- Tells a story in two different perspectives, usually from the viewpoint of two different people.
- Is an effective technique used to tell the story of people (or even one person) at two different points in time.
This structure allows authors to explore a story from multiple angles simultaneously, providing readers with contrasting insights, building suspense, or revealing connections across time or character experiences.
Key Applications of Dual Narrative
Dual narratives commonly manifest in literature through these primary applications:
- Different Perspectives: Sharing the story through the eyes of two or more characters involved in the same events or related plots. This often highlights subjective experiences and interpretations.
- Different Timelines: Presenting events from the past and the present, often alternating chapters or sections between the two eras. This can be used to show character development, reveal historical context, or demonstrate the consequences of past actions.
The reference specifically mentions that telling a story of people (or one person) at two different points in time is a common use, citing examples such as Postcards from No Man's Land and Great Expectations.
