CRISIS – In this story there are several moments of crisis. The doctor defies Death for the first time, but gets away with saving the king. Then the doctor defies Death again to save the princess and this creates another crisis.
CLIMAX – In the fable the climax occurs when the terrified doctor begs for a new candle. Will Death grant him one? Will he live? Will he become king and marry the princess?
RESOLUTION / DENOUEMENT – In this tale the resolution is swift. Death deliberately fumbles with the candle and allows it to go out.