What are the 7 Story Plots?

Storytelling is a universal aspect of human culture, transcending time and geography. At the heart of every compelling narrative lies a fundamental structure or “plot” that resonates with audiences. Literary theorist Christopher Booker proposed that seven basic plots form the foundation of all stories. This article explores Booker’s theory, delves into the debate surrounding the universality of these plots, and provides examples and guidance on crafting stories using these archetypal frameworks.

Literary Theorist Christopher Booker

A Brief Biography of Christopher Booker

Christopher Booker (1937–2019) was a renowned British journalist and author best known for his work in literary theory and cultural criticism. Born in Plymouth, England, Booker developed an early interest in storytelling and narrative structures. He pursued a career in journalism, contributing to prominent publications such as The Sunday Times and The Guardian. His keen analytical skills and passion for literature led him to explore the underlying mechanics of storytelling, culminating in his seminal work, The Seven Basic Plots: Why We Tell Stories.

His Contributions to Literary Theory

Booker’s most influential contribution to literary theory is his identification and elaboration of the seven basic plots that underpin most narratives across cultures and eras. In his book, he argues that these plots are deeply ingrained in the human psyche, reflecting universal themes and archetypes. Booker’s framework has been widely discussed and applied in various fields, including literature, film, and psychology, offering a lens through which to analyze and create compelling stories.

Are There Only 7 Story Plots?

The Debate Over the Universality of Seven Plots

While Booker’s identification of seven basic plots has gained significant traction, it has its critics. Proponents argue that these plots capture the essence of human storytelling, providing a foundational blueprint for narrative construction. They contend that these archetypal stories address fundamental human experiences and emotions, making them universally relatable.

However, skeptics question the rigidity of categorizing all stories into seven plots. They argue that storytelling is inherently diverse and fluid, with countless variations and hybrids that defy simplistic classification. Additionally, cultural differences and evolving societal norms can create new narrative forms that may not fit neatly into Booker’s framework.

An example of one of these forms is the Eastern Kishotenketsu. 

Criticisms and Alternative Theories

Critics of Booker’s theory point out that his list may be overly simplistic and reductive, potentially overlooking the complexity and richness of individual stories. Some scholars propose alternative frameworks with more or fewer plot categories, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of narrative structures.

For instance, some argue for a more nuanced approach that considers subplots, character arcs, and thematic elements alongside overarching plot structures. Others suggest that the interaction between multiple plots within a single story can create intricate and layered narratives that extend beyond the seven basic plots.

Here are just a few alternative theories of story structure:

Joseph Campbell’s The Hero’s Journey

• A universal narrative structure outlining the hero’s adventure and transformation.

Vladimir Propp’s Morphology of the Folktale

• An analysis of the structural components found in Russian fairy tales.

Kurt Vonnegut’s Shapes of Stories

• A conceptual framework representing stories based on the protagonist’s fortune over time.

Dan Harmon’s Story Circle

• A simplified version of the Hero’s Journey tailored for screenwriting and episodic storytelling.

Robert McKee’s Story Structure

• A comprehensive guide to crafting compelling narratives, especially for screenplays.

John Truby’s 22-Step Story Structure

• A detailed approach focusing on character development and thematic depth.

Blake Snyder’s Save the Cat Beat Sheet

• A 15-beat framework designed to create commercially successful screenplays.

Michael Hauge’s Story Structure

• A three-act structure emphasizing character transformation and emotional engagement.

A Brief Summary of the Seven Basic Plots

Booker identifies seven fundamental plots that he believes encapsulate the essence of storytelling. Each plot follows a distinct trajectory and addresses different aspects of the human experience.

Overcoming the Monster

In this plot, the protagonist faces and ultimately defeats a formidable antagonist or evil force. This confrontation often symbolizes the battle between good and evil, with the hero overcoming insurmountable odds to restore balance or safety.

Tips for writing Overcoming the Monster

1. Create a Formidable Foe: Your antagonist should possess overwhelming power and pose a significant threat to the protagonist and the world around them. Consider their motivations, strengths, weaknesses, and how they relate to the protagonist’s journey.

2. Establish Stakes: The stakes should be high enough to create a sense of urgency and danger. What will happen if the protagonist fails to defeat the monster? The higher the stakes, the more invested the reader will be.

3. Build the Protagonist’s Character: The protagonist should be capable, determined, vulnerable, and relatable. Show their growth and development as they face challenges and overcome obstacles.

4. Introduce Obstacles: The journey to defeat the monster should be filled with obstacles and trials. These can be physical, emotional, or psychological. Consider the challenges the protagonist will face and how they will overcome them.

5. Leverage the Power of Symbolism: The monster often symbolizes a deeper conflict or fear within the protagonist or society. Use symbolism to add depth and meaning to the story.

6. Create a Climactic Confrontation: The final confrontation between the protagonist and the monster should be a thrilling and suspenseful climax. Make sure it’s a satisfying resolution that leaves the reader feeling triumphant.

7. Explore Themes of Good vs. Evil: The “Overcoming the Monster” plot often explores the themes of good versus evil. Consider how these themes are reflected in the characters, setting, and plot.

Example: In Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Voldemort is a powerful and evil wizard who threatens the wizarding world. Harry, a young wizard, must overcome his fears and doubts to defeat Voldemort and protect the magical community. The story explores themes of good versus evil, courage, and friendship.

Rags to Riches

This narrative follows a protagonist who rises from humble or impoverished beginnings to achieve greatness, wealth, or happiness. The journey often involves personal growth, resilience, and the acquisition of valuable skills or knowledge.

Tips for writing Rags to Riches

1. Establish a Strong Starting Point: Clearly define the protagonist’s humble or impoverished beginnings. Use vivid descriptions to paint a picture of their circumstances and challenges.

2. Create a Clear Goal: What does the protagonist aspire to achieve? Their goal should be attainable but challenging, providing a clear direction for the story.

3. Introduce Obstacles: Place obstacles in the protagonist’s path that test their resilience and determination. These can be financial, social, or personal challenges.

4. Show Character Growth: The protagonist should undergo significant personal growth throughout the journey. Highlight their development in terms of skills, knowledge, and emotional maturity.

5. Leverage the Power of Mentorship: A mentor can provide guidance, support, and opportunities to the protagonist. Consider introducing a mentor who believes in the protagonist’s potential.

6. Build a Sense of Triumph: The protagonist’s eventual success should be earned and celebrated. Make sure the ending is satisfying and uplifting.

Example: In The Pursuit of Happiness, Chris Gardner starts from a low point, struggling with poverty and homelessness. Through hard work, perseverance, and the support of his son, he achieves his goal of becoming a successful stockbroker. The story highlights the importance of resilience, determination, and the power of hope.

The Quest

A quest plot centers around a journey undertaken by the protagonist to achieve a specific goal, often involving retrieving a valuable object or attaining significant knowledge. The journey is typically fraught with challenges and obstacles that test the hero’s resolve and character.

Tips for writing The Quest

1. Define a Clear Goal: What is the protagonist seeking? The goal should be both desirable and challenging.

2. Create a Dangerous and Exciting World: The world the protagonist inhabits should be filled with adventure, danger, and mystery.

3. Introduce a Compelling Antagonist: A powerful antagonist can add stakes and conflict to the quest.

4. Test the Protagonist’s Character: The journey should present the protagonist with challenges that test their physical, mental, and emotional strength.

5. Use Symbolism: The quest can often symbolize a deeper journey of self-discovery or spiritual growth. Use symbolism to add layers of meaning to the story.

6. Provide a Satisfying Conclusion: The quest should culminate in a climactic event that resolves the central conflict and leaves the protagonist transformed.

Example: In The Lord of the Rings, Frodo Baggins embarks on a dangerous quest to destroy the One Ring. The journey takes him through hazardous lands, where he faces countless challenges and temptations. The quest ultimately tests Frodo’s character and reveals his strength and courage.

Voyage and Return

In this plot, the protagonist embarks on an adventure to a strange or unfamiliar land, encounters various trials, and ultimately returns home, transformed by the experience. The journey emphasizes personal growth and the acquisition of new perspectives.

Tips for writing Voyage and Return

1. Create an Exotic and Enticing Destination: The destination should be unfamiliar and intriguing, offering the protagonist new experiences and perspectives.

2. Introduce Challenges and Trials: The journey should be filled with obstacles and challenges that test the protagonist’s resilience and adaptability.

3. Emphasize Personal Growth: The protagonist should undergo significant personal growth during their journey. They should learn new skills, gain new insights, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world.

4. Use the Journey as a Metaphor: The journey can often symbolize a deeper transformation, such as coming of age, spiritual awakening, or personal growth.

5. Create a Satisfying Return: The protagonist’s return home should be a triumphant moment that reflects their growth and transformation.

Example: In The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy is transported to a magical land where she faces challenges and learns valuable lessons. Upon returning home, she realizes the true magic was always within her.

Comedy

Comedy plots are characterized by humorous events and misunderstandings that lead to a joyful resolution. These stories often involve mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and social satire, ultimately resulting in harmony and reconciliation.

Tips for Writing a Comedy

1. Create Relatable Characters: The characters in your comedy should be relatable and likable. Their quirks and flaws should be endearing, making it easy for the audience to connect with them.

2. Set Up Misunderstandings and Confusions: A comedy plot often revolves around misunderstandings and mistaken identities. These can lead to humorous situations and unexpected consequences.

3. Use Satire and Social Commentary: Satire can add a layer of humor and depth to your comedy. By poking fun at social issues or stereotypes, you can create a thought-provoking and entertaining story.

4. Build the Comic Timing: The timing of your jokes is crucial. Pay attention to the rhythm and pacing of your narrative to ensure that the humor lands effectively.

5. Create a Satisfying Resolution: While the story should be filled with humorous situations, the resolution should be heartwarming and satisfying. The characters should learn valuable lessons and find happiness.

Example: In The Office, the characters are often involved in humorous misunderstandings and awkward situations. Their relatable personalities and the show’s satirical portrayal of office culture contribute to the comedy. The actors’ comedic timing and the show’s overall tone create a balance of humor and heart, making it a beloved sitcom.

Tragedy

Tragedy plots revolve around the protagonist’s downfall, often due to a fatal flaw, poor decisions, or external pressures. These narratives evoke pity and fear, highlighting the fragility of human existence and the consequences of hubris.

Tips for Writing a Tragedy

1. Create a Sympathetic Protagonist: The protagonists in a tragedy should be relatable and likable, even with their flaws. The audience should feel empathy and pity for them.

2. Introduce a Tragic Flaw: The protagonist’s downfall should be a result of a fatal flaw or poor decision. This flaw should be believable and contribute to their tragic fate.

3. Build Suspense and Tension: The story should be filled with suspense and tension as the protagonist’s situation deteriorates. The audience should feel the weight of their decisions and the consequences of their actions.

4. Explore Themes of Mortality and Human Nature: Tragedy often explores deep themes such as mortality, human nature, and the limitations of human existence.

5. Offer a Cathartic Conclusion: The ending of a tragedy should be cathartic, providing the audience with a sense of closure and reflection.

Example: In Hamlet, Hamlet’s tragic flaw is his indecision and procrastination. His inability to act leads to a series of tragic events, culminating in his own downfall. The play explores themes of revenge, mortality, and the limitations of human understanding.

Rebirth

The rebirth plot focuses on the protagonist’s transformation from a flawed or stagnant state to one of renewal and growth. This journey often involves overcoming personal demons, embracing change, and achieving redemption.

Tips for Writing a Rebirth

1. Create a Relatable Protagonist: The protagonist should be flawed and struggling. Their flaws should be relatable to the audience, making it easier to root for their transformation.

2. Introduce a Catalyst for Change: Something significant should happen to trigger the protagonist’s transformation. This event could be a personal loss, a crisis, or a new opportunity.

3. Show Character Growth: The protagonist should undergo a significant physical and emotional transformation. They should overcome their flaws and emerge stronger and more resilient.

4. Explore Themes of Redemption and Renewal: The rebirth plot often explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the possibility of a second chance.

5. Create a Hopeful Ending: The ending should be uplifting and hopeful, showing the protagonist’s newfound strength and purpose.

Example: In A Christmas Carol, Scrooge’s transformation is triggered by the visitations of the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Through these experiences, Scrooge learns the value of generosity and compassion, leading to his redemption.

Examples of Stories Using the Seven Basic Plots

Examples from Classic Literature

• Overcoming the Monster: Beowulf – Beowulf battles the monster Grendel.
• Rags to Riches: Cinderella – Cinderella rises from servitude to royalty.
• The Quest: The Lord of the Rings – Frodo embarks on a quest to destroy the One Ring.
• Voyage and Return: The Odyssey – Odysseus journeys home from the Trojan War.
• Comedy: A Midsummer Night’s Dream – A series of comedic misunderstandings and romantic entanglements.
• Tragedy: Hamlet – The tragic downfall of Prince Hamlet.
• Rebirth: A Christmas Carol – Ebenezer Scrooge transforms from miser to philanthropist.

Examples from Modern Fiction

• Overcoming the Monster: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone – Harry faces Voldemort.
• Rags to Riches: The Pursuit of Happiness – Chris Gardner’s journey from homelessness to success.
• The Quest: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – The final quest to defeat Voldemort.
• Voyage and Return: Alice in Wonderland – Alice’s adventures and return from Wonderland.
• Comedy: Bridget Jones’s Diary – The humorous romantic mishaps of Bridget Jones.
• Tragedy: Breaking Bad – Walter White’s transformation and downfall.
• Rebirth: The Lion King – Simba’s return and reclamation of his kingdom.

Examples from Film and Television

• Overcoming the Monster: Jaws – The battle against the great white shark.
• Rags to Riches: Rocky – Rocky Balboa’s rise as a boxing champion.
• The Quest: Indiana Jones – Indiana Jones’ adventures in seeking ancient artifacts.
• Voyage and Return: The Wizard of Oz – Dorothy’s journey to Oz and return to Kansas.
• Comedy: Friends – The humorous interactions and relationships of a group of friends.
• Tragedy: Breaking Bad – The tragic decline of Walter White.
• Rebirth: The Matrix – Neo’s transformation and awakening to his true potential.

How to Write the Seven Basic Plots

Understanding the seven basic plots provides a foundational framework for crafting compelling narratives. Here are some steps to utilize these plots in your storytelling:

1. Choose a Core Plot: Select one of the seven basic plots that best aligns with the story you want to tell. Consider the themes and emotions you wish to explore.
2. Develop Your Protagonist: Create a relatable and dynamic main character who will drive the narrative forward. Ensure they have clear goals, motivations, and flaws.
3. Establish Conflict: Introduce obstacles and challenges that the protagonist must overcome. Conflict is essential for creating tension and maintaining audience engagement.
4. Build the Narrative Arc: Structure your story with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Include rising action, a climax, and a resolution that aligns with the chosen plot.
5. Incorporate Supporting Characters: Develop secondary characters who complement the protagonist’s journey. They can provide assistance and opposition or serve as catalysts for change.
6. Emphasize Transformation: Focus on the protagonist’s growth and transformation throughout the story, especially in plots like Rebirth or Rags to Riches.
7. Add Unique Elements: While adhering to the basic plot structure, infuse your story with unique details, settings, and subplots to distinguish it and add depth.
8. Revise and Refine: Continuously review and refine your narrative to ensure coherence, pacing, and emotional impact.

By leveraging the seven basic plots, writers can tap into universal storytelling mechanisms that resonate with audiences, providing a solid foundation upon which to build intricate and memorable stories.

The Significance of Understanding the Seven Basic Plots

Grasping the seven basic plots offers invaluable insight into the mechanics of storytelling. It allows writers and creators to understand the underlying structures that make narratives compelling and relatable. This knowledge can enhance creative processes, enabling the crafting of stories that resonate deeply with audiences by tapping into shared human experiences and emotions.

Moreover, recognizing these plots can aid in analyzing and appreciating literature and media, providing a framework for dissecting and understanding the complexities of various narratives.

Future Directions in Plot Analysis

As storytelling continues to evolve with technological advancements and cultural shifts, the exploration of plot structures remains a dynamic field. Future research may delve into the interplay between traditional plots and emerging narrative forms, such as interactive and transmedia storytelling. Additionally, integrating psychological and sociocultural perspectives could offer a more nuanced understanding of how plots influence and reflect human behavior and societal values.

Furthermore, as global narratives become increasingly interconnected, examining cross-cultural variations and hybrid plots may reveal new dimensions of storytelling that transcend traditional categorizations. The ongoing dialogue between theory and practice will continue to enrich the landscape of narrative analysis, ensuring that the study of plots remains relevant and insightful.