Time Period: The Foundation of Every Great Story

Storytects Podcast: Episode 2

Episode 2 of Storytects explores one of the most essential yet often overlooked elements of storytelling—time period. More than just a backdrop, the time period shapes the world, characters, conflicts, and themes, influencing everything from societal norms to technological limitations. This episode breaks down seven key reasons why time period matters and how it impacts the depth of a story.

Seven Ways Time Period Shapes Storytelling:

1. Defines the World & Its Rules – Every era has unique customs, technology, and limitations that shape how a story unfolds.
2. Influences Character Behavior & Motivations – A protagonist’s struggles, goals, and values are deeply tied to the time they live in.
3. Determines the Central Conflict – The time period dictates the stakes, whether it’s war, political turmoil, or social revolution.
4. Shapes a Story’s Themes – Historical and cultural context gives meaning to a narrative’s core message.
5. Affects Emotional Connection – Some eras carry emotional weight that heightens a story’s impact (Schindler’s List, The Hunger Games).
6. Creates Unique Narrative Opportunities – Different time periods offer different storytelling tools (Assassin’s Creed vs. Westworld).
7. Connects to a Larger History – Understanding a story’s past and future adds richness, as seen in The Lord of the Rings.

Using The Lord of the Rings, 1984, To Kill a Mockingbird, and more as case studies, this episode explores how time period transforms a simple plot into an immersive world with deeper meaning. Whether crafting historical fiction, fantasy, or sci-fi, choosing the right era can unlock new creative possibilities for any storyteller.

🎧 Listen to Time Period: The Foundation of Every Great Story | Storytects Podcast | Ep. 2

Join the Storytects Community

If you’re passionate about storytelling, world-building, and creative innovation, you’ve found your home. Subscribe for future content, share your thoughts, and connect with a community as obsessed with storytelling as you are.