What transition can signify a shift in a character's situation in a narrative?

A change in setting is a powerful narrative device that can signify a shift in a character's situation. When the setting changes, it often reflects or influences the character's internal state or circumstances. For example, moving from a familiar, safe environment to a harsh, hostile landscape can symbolize the character's struggles or transformation. This change can also introduce new challenges or opportunities that the character must navigate, thereby illustrating their growth or decline.

Introducing a new character could affect this transition, but it doesn’t inherently signify a shift in the character’s own situation. Similarly, flashbacks provide context and background but don't always indicate a change in the present circumstances. Dialogue with other characters can reveal emotions and conflicts, but alone it does not mean that the character's situation has fundamentally altered. Therefore, a change in setting serves as a clear and direct way to communicate a shift in the character's journey.