Narrative Theories

• Tzvetan Todorov• Vladimir Propp• Claude Levi-Strauss

Tzvetan Todorov –EquilibriumAll stories start in a state of equilibrium, which is then disrupted, setting in a motion a chain of events. The resolution of the story is the creation of a new/different equilibrium.

Equilibrium>Disruption>Resolution/Re-Equilibrium

This narrative structure can be found in most Hollywood films

Vladimir Propp- Propp was essential interested in the narrative of folk tales. He identified a theory about folk tales being similar in many areas.

- They were about the same basic struggles and they appeared to have ‘Stock Characters’.

- He identified a theory about characters and actions as narrative functions; they provide a structure for the text.

• The Hero – a character that seeks something • The Villain – who opposes or actively blocks the hero’s quest• The Donor - Who provides an object with magical properties• The Dispatcher - who sends the hero on his/her quest via a message• The False hero – who disrupts the hero’s success by making false claims• The Helper - who aids the hero• The Princess – acts as the reward for the hero and the object of the villain’s plots• Her Father – who acts to reward the hero for his effort

These characters appear in many mainstream Hollywood films

Claude Levi-Strauss: Binary Oppositions Meanings, including narrative, depend on binary oppositions – he explores these in terms of underlying typical themes rather than events. Conflict helps to drive the narrative.Man Vs WomanYoung Vs OldHero Vs Villain West Vs EastGood Vs Bad

You Rock My World

What narrative theories can be discussed in relation to the music video?What aspects of postmodernism are apparent? What why audiences consume this media text?

Propp’s Character Types

Homage / Self-Pastiche

Homage / Intertextual Reference to the Crime Genre

Reservoir Dogs

The Godfather

The Untouchables

Postmodernism - blurring of boundaries

Post-Feminism - Experiencing different identities