Three Theories of Narrative

By Seun Oyepitan

Todorov’s Narrative Theory

• Todorov’s Narrative Theory states that most stories or plot lines follow the same pattern or path. Their are 5 steps to this pattern:

1. Equilibrium2. A disruption3. Realisation4. Restored Order5. Equilibrium Again

Equilibrium

• The first start of the story everything is going well and the majority of characters are content with the ways everything should be.

• In this case, Homer and Bart are having fun and doing chores.

Disruption

• The second part will feature a problem and everything will mess up.

• In this case it happens when Homer adopts a pig.

Realisation

• This part is when everyone realises the problem and chaos ensues.

• In this plot, The Simpsons are kicked out of Springfield and move to Alaska

Restored Order

• The is the part where the characters attempt to restore the damage and repair the problem.

• In this case The Simpsons go back and save Springfield.

Equilibrium Again

• This is the part of the plot where everything is normal and everyone has been saved.

• In the Simpsons Springfield is saved and the dome in blown up.

Propp’s Narrative Theory

• Propp’s theory states that in every narrative there are always characters that play certain roles.

1. Hero2. Villain3. Heroine4. Father5. Helper6. Donor7. Mentor

Hero

• The hero leads the plot and is usually looking for something or looking to achieve something.

• In The Incredibles, the hero is Bob Parr, or Mr Incredible. He Is looking to save people and fight crime so he and Frozone save people every Wednesday night.

Villain

• The villain is the antagonist and conflicts with the hero.

• In the plot the villain is Syndrome. He created bots called “omnidroids” to kill real super heroes so he can pretend to be one.

Heroine

• The heroine is sometimes an accomplice or is the prize for the hero. (It can be switched through genders.)

• The heroine is glory. Mirage tell Bob that he can “relive his glory days” when he didn't have to hide his super powers.

Father

• A figure of authority that offers the prize to the hero.

• Mirage offer Bob a large pay increase and a chance to relive his glory days.

Helper

• The helper often helps the hero and is often the sidekick.

• In the Incredibles their are many helpers like his family, Frozone, and Edna Mode.

Donor

• Gives the hero a clue to find out the mystery and complete their quest.

• The first omnidroids helps bob because as he defeats it he finds out that omnidroids can destroy themselves and Syndrome killed all the superheroes.

Mentor

• The mentor teaches one of the main characters although it doesn't always have to be the hero.

• Bob acts as a mentor to his kids, Violet and Dash. This is shown when he tells his kids to be proud of their powers and not ashamed

Levi-Strauss Narrative Theory

• This theory states that the opposites depends on the belief of words not the word in itself.

• Binary opposites are used to help film plots, they are also used in different forms of media including songs to reinforce lyrics.

Vampire Vs Werewolves

• The twilight saga is a recent example of opposites. None of them are good or bad per se but their rivalry are shown through Jacob and Edward.

Good Vs Evil

• Harry is constantly shown to represent evil while “he who shall not be named” is represented as evil. Voldemort is always shows to be scary and non human like while Harry represents youth and goodwill.