Todorov and Propp's Narrative and Character Theories

Tsvetan Todorov presents us with his theory, which is based on his study of folk tales, that implies all mainstream film follows a similar narrative structure to each other. It consists of five stages and is known as Todorov's Theory of Narrative.

Equilibrium-  the introductory setting is established, with key characters appearing and the storyline is set up. This part of the story shows the balance in the lives of the characters before stage two occurs.

Disruption- oppositional characters are introduced and the story takes a particular direction.

Recognition- of the disruption, the characters lives and the events are combined and so we are able to see the effect the events could have on the characters. This is the part where Todorov believes the tensions constantly builds and this section is the longest in the film.

Repair- or attempts to repair the damage from the disruption, the highest point of tension in the film, after which comes a change in dynamic.

New Equilibrium- where everything is restored but adapted to the new dynamic, problems are all solved and loose ends are tied.

Vladimir Propp also proposes a narrative structure which is similar to Todorov's, but slightly more detailed and complex.

Preparation- Introduction to the story

Complication- keys or clues to the direction of the story

Transference- the donor events

Struggle- dealing with the complications

Return- back to "home" however there are still issues remaining

Recognition- Loose ends are tied up

This ties in directly with Propp's Character Theory, which identifies more character roles than the previously obvious protagonist and antagonist. He states the importance of "spheres of action" for each character as opposed to rigid character types, with one character having the ability to assume more than one role. Propp identifies seven main roles:

The villain

The donor- prepares the hero or gives them a magical object

The (magical) helper- helps the hero throughout the quest

The princess- object of the heroes desire, sought for during the narrative

The princess's father- rewards the hero

The dispatcher- character to makes the lack known and sends the hero off

The Hero (victim/seeker)- reacts to the donor, weds the princess, completes the quest

The false hero, usurper or anti-hero