Genre Theory describes two theories of narrative structure: Todorov's theory suggests that all narratives follow a three-part structure of equilibrium, disruption of equilibrium, and restoration of a new equilibrium. Barthes' theory consists of five narrative codes - hermeneutic, enigma, semantic, symbolic, and cultural - that describe how meaning is created in a text and leave the audience with potential additional meanings to decode.

1. Genre Theory
LIAM GILSON – A2

2. Todorov’s Theory
The theory was created by Tzvetan Todorov. It suggests that all narratives follow a
three part structure where they begin with equilibrium, where everything is balanced,
progress as something comes along to disrupt that equilibrium and finally reach a
resolution, when the equilibrium is restored.
EQUILIBRIUM
DISRUPTION OF
THE EQUILIBRIUM
RECIGNITION OF
THE DISRUPTION
AN ATTEMPT TO
REPAIR THE DAMAGE
NEW EQUILIBRIUM

3. Barthes Theory
Barthes Theory was created by Roland Barthes which consists of 5 narrative codes that
describe the meaning of a text. His theory basically means that the text is like puzzle,
once solved, we encounter a range of potential meanings.
Hermeneutic Code – This code creates mystery, dropping clues throughout the text and
avoids revealing all the facts etc.
Enigma/Proairetic Code – This is the way tension is built up. The audience is then left
guessing what happens next.
Semantic Code – This points to any element in the text which suggests an additional
meaning by way of connotation which the text suggests.
Symbolic Code – This code exercises opposites to show contrast and create greater
meaning, tension, drama and character development.
Cultural Code – Looks at the audiences wider cultural knowledge, morality and ideology