Nov 01, 2018 · The inciting incident of a story is the event that sets the plot into motion, thrusting the main character into the action. Generally, it marks the moment the protagonist embarks on their personal journey for the rest of the novel. Famous examples of inciting incidents include the party in The Great Gatsby and Gandalf’s entrance in The Hobbit.

foment: [verb] to promote the growth or development of : rouse, incite.

incentive: [noun] something that incites or has a tendency to incite to determination or action.