This theory was established by a Russian critic and literacy theorist called Vladimir Propp. He analysed over 100 Russian fairtales in the 1920s and proposed that it is possible to classify the characters and their actions into eight clearly defined roles and functions. Films such as Star Wars fit Propp's model precisely however, more recent films do not.
The eight character roles:
- The Hero
- The Villain
- The Donor
- The Dispatcher
- The False Hero
- The Helper
- The Princess
- Her Father
Todorov's Theory
This theory suggest that most narratives start with a state of equilibrium in which life is normal and the protagonist is happy. The state of normality is then disrupted by an outside force, which then has to be fought against in order to return to a state of equilibrium.
Equilibrium - Disequilibium - New Equilibium
Roland Barthes Theory
Barthes is a French semiologist who suggested that narrative works with five different codes, which activate the reader to make sense of it. He also uses the terms denotation and connotation to analyse images.
Codes:
- Action - a narrative device by which a resolution is produced through action.
- Enigma - a narrative device that teases the audience by presenting a puzzle or riddle to be solved.
- Symbolic - connotation
- Semic - denotation
- Cultural - a narrative device which the audience can recognise as being part of a culture.
This theorist examines how stories unconsciously reflect the values, beliefs and myths of a culture. They are usually expressed in the form of binary oppositions.
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