What name is exposition?

Exposition is a device used in television programs, films, literature, poetry, plays and even music. It is the writer's way to give background information to the audience about the setting and the characters of the story.

Definition of Exposition

I have a past, you have a past, and everyone you know has a past. When you start to read a book or watch a movie or television program, the story does not typically begin with the birth of the main character. Instead, the narrative begins whenever the writer wants to start the character's journey. This journey could begin when a character is 5 or 35 or even 95 years old.

However, often times a writer will need to provide certain details about a character's past in order for the reader or spectator to understand the story. This backstory is called exposition. It provides an audience not only with the important details about the characters before the story begins, but it also helps the audience get to know the setting of where the narrative will unfold.