What does the term "narrative viewpoint" refer to?

The term "narrative viewpoint" refers to the perspective from which a story is told. This encompasses who is telling the story and how much the narrator knows about the characters and events. For example, a first-person narrative viewpoint means that the story is narrated by one of the characters, using "I" or "we," which gives readers direct insight into the narrator's thoughts and feelings. In contrast, a third-person viewpoint might provide a more objective overview, allowing for varying levels of insight into different characters. This aspect of narrative is crucial as it shapes the reader's understanding and interpretation of the story.

Other options, like the end of a story, the main character, or the setting, do not define narrative viewpoint and instead pertain to different elements of storytelling. Understanding narrative viewpoint is essential for analyzing how stories are constructed and how they affect readers' engagement and perspective.