What characterizes an "unreliable narrator"?

An unreliable narrator is characterized by a compromised credibility, which means that the audience cannot fully trust the information or perspective being presented. This lack of reliability can stem from various factors such as the narrator’s knowledge limitations, biases, mental state, or intentional deceit. These elements create doubt about the truthfulness of the narrative, prompting readers to question the authenticity of the events or characters being portrayed.

In contrast, a narrator with perfect recall of events demonstrates accuracy and reliability, which contradicts the concept of unreliability. Similarly, a narrator who tells the story in an entertaining way may engage the audience but does not inherently affect the trustworthiness of the account. Lastly, a narrator who knows all the characters’ thoughts usually signifies a position of omniscience and reliability, as they have a comprehensive understanding of the story, which is contrary to the idea of being unreliable. Thus, the essence of an unreliable narrator lies in the fact that their credibility is compromised, leading readers to discern the underlying truth independently.