Exposition in The War of the Worlds:
The story begins with a seemingly ordinary day in Victorian England. The narrator, an unnamed observer, describes the peaceful scene of a sunny summer afternoon.
Key elements of the exposition:
* Setting: The story is set in rural England, specifically Woking and its surrounding countryside, in the late 19th century. This establishes a sense of normalcy and familiarity, creating a stark contrast with the impending invasion.
* Characters: The narrator is introduced as an ordinary citizen, who will act as our guide through the unfolding events. We also meet other characters, including the narrator's brother, his neighbor, and the local police.
* Atmosphere: The initial atmosphere is one of quiet tranquility and scientific curiosity. The first sign of the invasion is a strange, bright light seen in the sky, sparking discussions and observations among the characters.
* The Martian Invasion: The narrator describes the arrival of the first Martian cylinder, its fiery descent, and the initial shock and fear it causes in the community. This marks the turning point in the story, introducing the conflict and the extraterrestrial threat.
* Early Reactions: The exposition focuses on the reactions of the local people and the initial attempts to understand and confront the unknown. The narrator witnesses the panic and confusion, highlighting the unpreparedness of humanity against the alien invasion.
Overall, the exposition of The War of the Worlds sets the scene, introduces the main characters, and establishes the conflict that will drive the story forward. It also creates a sense of suspense and anticipation, as the reader is left wondering what will happen next in the face of this alien invasion.