What is the background information presented at the beginning of a story called?

The background information presented at the beginning of a story is known as exposition. This crucial component of narrative structure introduces readers to the setting, characters, and the initial circumstances that form the foundation for the story. By providing context, exposition helps readers understand the environment in which the characters operate and the challenges they may face.

The role of exposition is significant because it not only sets the stage for the plot but also engages the reader by establishing the emotional and thematic undertones of the narrative. Without effective exposition, readers may struggle to connect with the characters or grasp the stakes involved, potentially leading to confusion as the story unfolds.

In contrast, other narrative elements like climax and falling action serve distinct purposes within the story's arc. The climax is the peak of tension in the story, while falling action deals with the events following the climax, leading to the resolution. The inciting incident is the event that sparks the main conflict, occurring after the exposition. Each of these elements plays a role in the story but does not fulfill the specific function of providing background information, which is the primary purpose of exposition.