What is the purpose of foreshadowing in a narrative?

Foreshadowing serves the important function of providing hints or clues about events that will unfold later in the narrative. This literary device creates anticipation in the reader, building suspense or preparing them emotionally for what is to come. By subtly suggesting future developments, foreshadowing enriches the storytelling, allowing readers to engage more deeply with the plot and characters. This technique helps guide their expectations and adds layers to the narrative, making the eventual outcomes feel more impactful because they are often rooted in the groundwork laid earlier in the story. Consequently, when readers encounter foreshadowing, it encourages them to pay attention to seemingly minor details, which may hold greater significance as the narrative progresses.