This document summarizes several narrative structures and theories: - Todorov's narrative structure outlines an equilibrium, disruption, recognition of disruption, and new equilibrium. - Propp identified 8 character types (hero, villain, etc.) and 31 narrative functions that move stories forward. - Levi-Strauss suggested binary oppositions (good/evil, men/women, etc.) create conflict and drive narratives by being resolved. These binaries are culturally constructed.

1. Narrative
Refers to the way the films story is
structured-the way in which events are
ordered and revealed to the audience.

2. Todorov’s narrative structure
Equilibrium
Disruption of the
equilibrium
Recognition of the
disruption
New equilibrium
An attempt to
repair the
damage caused
by the
disruption.
This is a typical structure to a film and can be seen
in many modern day films as well as films that are
older too.

3. Propps Character types and narrative
functions
Vladimir Propp studied loots of folktales and discovered they mainly contained 8
character types and 31 functions that move the story into more depth.
Character type Role
Hero Takes the journey/quest of the film
Villain Attempts to kill or throw off the hero’s plans
Helper A friend or companion that helps the hero
Princess Reward for the hero’s quest. Often trapped by
the villain
Princess’ father Rewards the hero
Dispatcher Character who sends the hero on their quest
False hero Takes credit for hero’s actions
Donor Provides hero with some form of help on their
journey
The 31 functions include events like:
• The hero being stopped from doing something
• The villain learns something about the victim
• The villain punishes the victim, or others

4. Levi-Strauss’ Binary Oppositions
Levi suggested that binary options are key to the meaning in narrative. He argued the
contrast creation of conflict and opposition propels narrative, and that narrative can
only end on a resolution of conflict.
Binary oppositions
examples:
• Good/evil
• Men/women
• Truth/lies
• Normal/abnormal
• Strong/weak
• Natural/unnatural
• Young/old
• Light/dark
It is important that
we judge one half of
each binary one is
more negative than
the other. Therefore
binaries are
ideological as they
are culturally
constructed.