What is an exemplum?
An anecdote or a brief story used to illustrate a point or moral.
The Power of a Story: Exploring the Exemplum in Creative Writing
As a creative writer, you have the ability to transport readers to different places and times, to introduce them to characters who are complex and intriguing, and to explore themes that are relevant and thought-provoking. But even the most fascinating story can benefit from the use of an exemplum, a brief tale that provides an example of the point you want to make. Whether you're trying to illustrate a moral, demonstrate a character's flaws or strengths, or underscore an important plot point, an exemplum can be an effective way to engage your readers and drive your message home.
When crafting an exemplum, it's important to keep a few things in mind. First, choose a story that is relevant to the point you are trying to make. The story should be brief and to the point, with a clear moral or message that will resonate with your readers. Second, be sure to incorporate the exemplum seamlessly into your larger narrative. The exemplum should feel like a natural part of the story, not a forced or awkward add-on. Finally, be mindful of the tone and style of your writing. An exemplum should fit seamlessly into the larger narrative, without jarring the reader out of the story.
By incorporating exempla into your creative writing, you can create stories that are engaging, thought-provoking, and impactful. Whether you're looking to teach a moral lesson, explore a character's internal struggles, or underscore an important plot point, an exemplum can be a powerful tool in your creative writing arsenal.
Exempla have been used in literature throughout history as a powerful tool to engage readers, illustrate morals, and underscore important messages. Here are two examples of exemplum from two classic works of fiction.
In this classic fable, a young shepherd boy repeatedly cries wolf to trick the nearby villagers, even though there is no wolf in sight. Eventually, the village stops believing the boy's cries, and when a wolf really does appear, they do not come to his aid. The moral of the story is clear: lying will eventually lead to negative consequences.
In this famous tale from Chaucer's masterpiece, a student named Nicholas convinces his landlord, John, that a great flood is coming and that he must prepare by hanging buckets from the rafters. When Nicholas seduces John's wife, Alison, the jealous husband cuts down the buckets, falls and injures himself. The tale serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of lust and the folly of gullibility.