Propp's character roles and narrative functions extension task
1. Soap Opera Genre –
Propp’s Character Roles
Propp’s Narrative Functions
Name: Lucas Kirkland
Candidate Number: 1159
Center Name: St. Andrew’s Catholic School
Center Number: 64135
OCR Media Studies – A2 Level
Unit G324: Advanced Portfolio
2. Trailer 1 – Hurricane Sharon Trailer
Through analysing this first soap opera trailer, the narrative function ‘Beginning Counter-Action’ is represented
in the key themes of the trailer. Sharon, a key character, is returning to the soap after leaving her problems
unresolved. For example the verbal code of the diegetic dialogue “Sharon is back!!” connotes how this will be a
defining moment for the hero. As she will fight to counter act any problems that were left when she was gone.
According to Propp’s Character roles, many of the key characters featured in this trailer can be associated to
certain roles. The trailer features heavily on the return of a main character. Sharon, the returning character is
dressed in a bright white wedding dress. For example the technical code of the medium long shot of Sharon in
her wedding dress portrays her as being a “Princess” (Propp’s character roles) who perhaps needs saving.
However the character is presented above all the other characters in the trailer. This means therefore she is
breaking out of this character role.
Additionally the wedding dress hints at the main plot to revolve around a key wedding. This conforms to Propp’s
narrative function the ‘wedding’. The hero marries and is rewarded or promoted by the family or community. In
Sharon's case she may gain power in EastEnders by marrying a key character, this makes the character ascend to
the throne. For example the technical code of the long shot, of Sharon ascending above the ground connotes
how the wedding will bring power to Sharon.
3. Trailer 2 – Official Hollyoaks Trailer: Love Lies
and Betrayal
The Narrative theme ‘Struggle’ (Propp’s narrative functions) features heavily
through the intertwining plots of this second trailer. This is due to the fact that many
of the characters are struggling with their own problems. The trailer opens with the
‘Trickery’ of adultery in the opening scenes, whereby the verbal code of the title
‘Lies’ (Propp’s Narrative functions) reinforces the trickery within the trailer.
‘Delivery’ (Propp’s narrative functions) is an additional narrative function that is
relevant in the scene where the villain delivers a injection that knocks out the hero.
