What term describes the narrative technique of starting a story in the middle of events?

The term that describes the narrative technique of starting a story in the middle of events is "In Medias Res." This Latin phrase translates to "in the middle of things," and it is a common storytelling strategy used by authors to engage readers immediately by plunging them into the action. By beginning the narrative in this way, writers can create a sense of urgency and intrigue, encouraging readers to gradually learn about the background through context, dialogue, or flashbacks as the story unfolds.

In contrast, other options do not fit this definition as they refer to different narrative techniques. An inverted narrative involves a storytelling structure that rearranges the order of events, which is distinct from simply starting in the middle. Foreshadowing is a technique used to hint at events to come without revealing them outright. Flashback entails revisiting past events that provide context to the current narrative, rather than starting in the midst of ongoing action.