In literature, what is the term used for a series of events that make up a story?

The term used for a series of events that make up a story is "plot." The plot encompasses the sequence of actions and happenings that drive the narrative forward, including the introduction of characters, the development of conflict, and the resolution of that conflict. It is essentially the framework through which the narrative unfolds, guiding the reader through the story's structure and pacing.

Conflict, while an essential element of the plot, refers specifically to the struggle or challenge faced by the characters, which propels the plot rather than defining the entire series of events. Theme, on the other hand, refers to the underlying message or central idea of the story, rather than the sequence of events themselves. Character pertains to the individuals within a story, each of whom may influence the plot, but again does not denote the series of events as a whole. Thus, "plot" is the most accurate term to describe the overarching structure of the story's events.