Tvzetan Todorov

By Dylan Lad

Todorov suggested that conventional narrative are structured in 5 stages:

1. A state of equilibrium at the outset2. A disruption of the equilibrium by some by some actions

3. A recognition that there has been a disruption4. An attempt to repair the disruption

5. A reinstatement of equilibrium

He argued that narrative involves a transformation. The characters of the situations are transformed though the progress of

disruption

Equilibrium

Displaying a happy start to a movieCharacters are happy and everything is going

on as I should be

In relation to Shrek: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmn12HszN8c)

1. The opening scene is when Shrek is reading a typical fairy princess story.

1. This includes a princess getting taken away and be rescued by a ‘hero’

DisequilibriumA problem will occur and disrupt the order

In relation to Shrek:1. When Shrek gets locked in the room and is not allowed to go to Fiona's engagement with Prince Charming

Recognition of disruptionCharacters recognise the disruption to the

plot and this is then followed up by a scene of chaos

In relation to Shrek:1. When Shrek escapes from the room he is locked in and then goes to the engagement and ruins Prince Charming's chances with her.

Attempt to resolve disruptionThe characters try's and resolves the

disruption/ issue

In relation to Shrek:1. Puss in Boots and Donkey try and stop Shrek from spoiling the moment by causing problems for him.

New EquilibriumThe ending of the movieThis is where there is a new plot and

everything is resolved and back to ‘Normal’

In relation to Shrek:1. Shrek and Fiona get married and live ‘Happily ever after’.