Todorov's Equilibrium Theory

1. TODOROV'S EQUILIBRIUM
THEORY

2. WHAT IS IT?
• Todorov's theory is that in a film or story, the power is in a state of equilibrium
(balance.) He believes that as the story progresses the state of equilibrium can
change, giving one person more power or authority over another throughout the
plot, keeping the audience entertained. Each story should start with an initial Status
Quo/Power set up of a person or within a group. This person or group has authority
over others. However, the equilibrium is changed after a disruption, resulting in a
disequilibrium. The old equilibrium is broken, and therefore a new one must begin.
This will repeat during the narrative until we reach a final equilibrium.

3. THE STAGES
1. There is an equal balance and initial equilibrium.
2. The equilibrium is disrupted by an event. (Disequilibrium)
3. There is recognition of the disruption occurring.
4. There is an attempt to repair the damage done by the disruption.
5. A return or restoration of a new equilibrium at the end of the narrative.

4. • Throughout the story there are many attempts to restore or find a new equilibrium
which is what drives the narrative, although the final equilibrium does not have to
be the same as the initial equilibrium. Often, the original status quo is restored,
however this expectation is sometimes broken (especially in the horror genre,
whether totally or partially breaking the theory.)

5. APPLYING IT
• 1)
- Red goes off the path to pick flowers – First moment of disruption.
- New equilibrium – Red begins to disobey parents and explore freedom.
- Wolf arrives and lusts after her basket of goodies – Disruption/New equilibrium.
New equilibrium – Wolf has tempted Red (Taken her from parents path)
2)
- Wolf eats Granny and eats her.
- Wolf becomes Granny – Disruption.
- Red arrives at Grannies.
- Red is suspicious and has doubt. Wolf reassures her – Disruption.
- Wolf attempts to ‘eat’ Red.
- Red flees – New equilibrium; Red is in danger, temporary safety, perused.
- Meets woodcutter – big ‘axe’ – Slices Wolf up –Disruption.
- Granny pops out – surprise! – Disruption.