What do we call the perspective from which a story is told?

The perspective from which a story is told is referred to as the point of view. This term encompasses the lens through which the narrative unfolds and can greatly influence how readers perceive the events and characters within the story. The point of view can vary, ranging from first-person, where a character within the story narrates their own experiences, to third-person omniscient, where an external narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters. Understanding the point of view is crucial for grasping how the story's message is conveyed, as it shapes the reader's connection to the characters and the narrative's unfolding. This makes it fundamental in literary analysis, as different perspectives can alter interpretations and emotional impact.