In Freytag's diagram, which term denotes the rising sequence of events leading toward the climax?

• A. Unity of Action
• B. Desis
• C. Lusis
• D. Exposition

Answer: (B)

Desis is the rising sequence of events that builds tension and complications as the story moves toward the peak moment. It’s where conflicts intensify, obstacles accumulate, and characters make plans that push the plot toward the climax. Exposition, by contrast, is the setup of who’s involved and where the action takes place, not the escalating chain of events. Unity of Action is a principle about keeping the plot focused on a single thread, not a stage of progression. Lusis isn’t a standard term used in Freytag’s model. So the rising action, or desis, is the best fit for the rising sequence toward the climax.