Narrative Theories

Tzvetan Todorov

Todorov in 1969 produced a theory which he believed to be able to be applied to any film. He

believed that all films followed the same narrative pattern. They all went through stages

called the equilibrium, disequilibrium, acknowledgement, solving and again

equilibrium.

Todorov’s Theory

There are five stages the narrative can progress through:

1. A state of equilibrium (All is as it should be.)2. A disruption of that order by an event.

3. A recognition that the disorder has occurred.4. An attempt to repair the damage of the

disruption.5. A return or restoration of a NEW equilibrium

Roland Barthes

Roland Barthes was a French literary theorists, philosopher, linguist, critic and semiotician. He

was born 12th November 1959 and died 26th March 1980. His ideas explored a diverse range in fields and he influenced the development of

schools with his theory.

Barthes Theory

1. The Hermeneutic Code - This refers to any element of the story that is not clear.

2. The Proairetic Code – This refers to any action that builds tension and indicates something else will happen.

3. The Semantic Code – Refers to connation within the narrative that gives meaning.

4. The Symbolic Code – This organizes semantic meanings into broader and deeper meaning.

5. The Cultural Code – Assumed to be the foundation truth of the narrative.