Todorov and Propp Theories

Tzvetan Todorov and Vladimir Propp Theories

Russian theorist, Tzvetan Todorov, suggests that all narratives follow a structure of five parts. The story begins with an equilibrium, where everything is balanced and things are as they should be. Then something comes along to disrupt that equilibrium (disequilibrium), in some cases the antagonist is introduced and the story takes a particular direction. The recognition that there has been a disruption then occurs, and then there is an attempt to repair the damage from the disequilibrium, which is often the highest point of tension throughout the film. Finally a reinstatement of the equilibrium is made at the end of the narrative, solving all the problems of the story.

• Equilibrium 
• Disruption 
• Recognition 
• Repair
• New Equilibrium  

Vladimir Propp's character theory is based on his analysis of folk tales and legends from various countries. Much like Todorov theory, but more detailed and complex, He arrived at the conclusion that the story is built up following folk tale guidelines as in there are always certain ‘types’ of characters. These include:

• Hero – Who is on a quest (search)
• Villain – The opposing foe to the hero
• Donor – Character who provides a tool(s) to the hero character
• Dispatcher – Who starts the hero on his quest/way
• False Hero – Character who tries to divert the hero from his quest
• Helper – self explanatory, helps the hero
• Princess – who is the reward for the hero
• Father – who rewards the hero for his efforts

Vladimir Propp also had a narrative theory that tied in with his character theory, which is set in 6 parts: Preparation occurs first when the audience is introduced to the story. A complication then transpires that gives clues to the direction that the story is heading. Transference is then where the donor provides the hero with tools or objects and other events. The struggle is where the hero deals with complications of his search. The hero then returns home with issues still remaining. Finally, recognition occurs where the story’s loose ends are tied up and all problems are solved. 

• Preparation 
• Complication 
• Transferance
• Struggle
• Return
• Recognition