Characters:
* The Students: We are introduced to a group of seemingly ordinary high school students, including the main protagonist, Jenny Harper, and her close friends David and Lisa. Jenny is described as quiet and introspective, while David is the popular and athletic one, and Lisa is known for her rebellious nature.
* Mr. Griffin: The antagonist of the story, Mr. Griffin is an English teacher known for his strictness and harsh punishments. He instills fear in his students, especially those who don't meet his high expectations.
* Other Characters: We also meet other characters like Mrs. Griffin, Mr. Griffin's wife, and Nancy, Jenny's mother, who provides a crucial perspective on the events unfolding.
Setting:
The story takes place in a small town, creating an environment of close-knit community and secrets easily shared. The high school is a significant location, representing a place of both learning and oppression.
Conflict:
The initial conflict is introduced through Jenny's perspective as she struggles to cope with Mr. Griffin's relentless pressure and his seemingly unreasonable dislike towards her. We learn that Mr. Griffin has a history of intimidating students, and rumors of his past actions begin to circulate.
Key Events:
* Jenny's Letter: Jenny writes a letter to Mr. Griffin, voicing her frustration with his teaching methods and demanding better treatment. This act of defiance sets the stage for the escalating tension between them.
* The Rumors: The rumors about Mr. Griffin's past begin to spread amongst the students, raising suspicion and fear.
* David's Involvement: David, despite being a popular student, is deeply affected by Mr. Griffin's actions and joins Jenny in seeking justice.
* The "Accidental" Death: The story takes a dramatic turn when Mr. Griffin is found dead in his classroom, seemingly as a result of a freak accident. This event sends shockwaves through the school, and Jenny and her friends find themselves at the center of the investigation.
Exposition Summary:
The exposition in "Killing Mr. Griffin" lays the groundwork for a suspenseful story filled with tension, secrets, and moral dilemmas. The characters are introduced, their relationships and motivations are revealed, and the central conflict between the students and their intimidating teacher is established. The "accident" of Mr. Griffin's death serves as a catalyst for the story to unfold, leaving the readers questioning the truth and anticipating the investigation that will reveal the secrets behind the death.