Todorov's theory of narrative structure proposes that stories typically follow five stages: 1) an initial state of equilibrium, 2) a disruption to the equilibrium caused by an outside force, 3) recognition of the disruption, 4) an attempt to repair the disruption, 5) a reinstatement of the equilibrium with the defeat of the outside force and restoration of a new state of well-being. The theory was put forth by literary theorist Tzvetan Todorov and suggests that narratives aim to resolve any opposing forces through a disruption, problem-solving, and return to order.