What is 3rd Person Point of View Examples?
The third person point of view is a narrative technique where the story is told from the perspective of a character or characters other than the narrator. This perspective allows for a broader scope and can include the thoughts, feelings, and actions of multiple characters. In this article, we will explore various examples of the third person point of view to help you understand its usage and effectiveness in storytelling.
1. Classic Literature Examples
One of the most famous examples of the third person point of view is found in Charles Dickens’ “Great Expectations.” The story is narrated by the protagonist, Pip, but his thoughts and feelings are often expressed through the narrator’s perspective. This allows the reader to gain insight into Pip’s development and emotions.
Another classic example is J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series. While the books are primarily told from Harry’s perspective, there are instances where the narrator delves into the minds of other characters, such as Voldemort, to provide deeper understanding of their motivations and intentions.
2. Modern Fiction Examples
In modern fiction, the third person point of view is widely used to create complex narratives. One such example is “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern. The story is narrated by two characters, Celia and Marco, who are separated but share a deep connection. The narrator shifts between their perspectives, allowing the reader to experience the story from both viewpoints.
Another modern example is “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak. The story is narrated by Death, who provides a unique perspective on human life and the events that unfold during World War II. This unconventional narrator adds depth to the story and allows the reader to explore the themes of life, death, and morality.
3. Non-Fiction Examples
The third person point of view is also employed in non-fiction writing, where it can be used to present information about a subject or event from multiple perspectives. For instance, “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari is narrated from the perspective of various historical figures and civilizations, providing a comprehensive overview of human history.
Similarly, “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot is told from the perspectives of several characters, including Henrietta’s family members, scientists, and medical professionals. This approach allows the reader to understand the ethical implications and historical significance of the HeLa cell line.
4. Short Story Examples
In short stories, the third person point of view can be used to create suspense and intrigue. For instance, in “The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe, the narrator confesses to the murder of an old man, and the reader is taken through the narrator’s thoughts and actions as he tries to hide the evidence. This perspective adds to the psychological tension and horror of the story.
Another example is “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson. The story is narrated from the perspective of the townspeople, who participate in a brutal annual ritual. The third person point of view allows the reader to witness the events unfold without being directly involved, heightening the sense of shock and horror.
In conclusion, the third person point of view is a versatile narrative technique that allows for a diverse range of perspectives and storytelling possibilities. From classic literature to modern fiction, non-fiction, and short stories, the third person point of view has proven to be a powerful tool for authors to convey complex narratives and engage readers.
