What does the term "point of view" refer to in literature?

The term "point of view" in literature refers to the lens through which a story is told. It encompasses the narrative perspective from which the events, characters, and settings are presented to the reader. This perspective significantly shapes readers' understanding and interpretation of the text. For instance, a first-person point of view provides intimate insights into a character's thoughts and feelings, while third-person limited may offer a more objective view of the story, focusing on one character's experiences. By understanding the point of view, readers can appreciate the nuances of the narrative and the author's intentions more fully, influencing how they connect with the story and its characters.

Other options reference aspects that influence storytelling but do not define point of view. The main conflict pertains to the challenges faced by characters within the plot, while structure refers to the way a story is organized. Character development tracks changes in characters over time but does not address the narrative perspective from which those changes are conveyed.