How the Four Basic Genres - Epic, Tragedy, Irony and Comedy - Are Composed
Here’s a classic pattern that most stories follow:  A protagonist, usually a young boy or servant, is missing at least one parent and is being brought up by a close family member or social superior. Early in the tale, he encounters an old man with a stick who orientates him to the antagonist, opening up the basic premise of the story. A journey or quest commences, usually physical, during which the protagonist is scarred, wounded or otherwise damaged; he also acquires a comi