2. The Theory
• TODOROV’S THEORY – Todorov proposed a basic
structure for all narratives. He stated that films
and programmes begin with an equilibrium, a
calm period. Then agents of disruption cause
disequilibrium, a period of unsettlement and
disquiet. This is then followed by a renewed state
of peace and harmony for the protagonists and a
new equilibrium brings the chaos to an end. The
simplest form of narrative (sometimes referred to
as ‘Classic’ or ‘Hollywood’ narrative).
3. The structure of the theory
• All media texts tell us some kind of
story, when watching film or TV show, the
structure of the story or script normally
relates to Todorov’s theory. They begin with a
equilibrium, then there is a disruption to the
equilibrium, how the disruption is resolved
and then towards the end they start to build
up to a new equilibrium.
4. Structure of the theory
• A narrative normally has two parts a structure
and a collection of elements.
• Elements include images, texts that are used
to create situations and are also used to
resolve situations which relate to his theory.
