Todorov/Strauss Theory

Todorov Theory - Narrative Theory 

Narrative structure-every story should go like this

State of equilibrium (equal) 

A disruption to the equilibrium  (disruption of the story being equal)

Recognition that the disorder has occurred (recognising the problem)

Attempt to repair the damage 

Return to new equilibrium 

Example of narrative structure- Cinderella 

State of equilibrium - Cinderella is living with her dad

A disruption to the equilibrium - Dad dies. Step mum + ugly step sisters 

Recognition that the disorder has occurred - She is treated like a slave, recognises her life is not awful.

Attempt to repair the damage - Fairy Godmother tries to help her. She meets prince charming, who falls in love with her, she looses her glass slipper.

Return to new equilibrium - She falls in love, she leaves those who kept her captive. Lives happy ever after.

Cuffs with narrative theory-Nathan

State of equilibrium - Jake gets a new job working at the police station

A disruption to the equilibrium - He goes on first job- and he's not good

Recognition that the disorder has occurred-Ryan realises he isn't very good 

Attempt to repair the damage - Saves Ryan’s life

Return to new equilibrium - Police officers accept him and he is now in the team 

Task- 

A couple wake up and go downstairs to breakfast.

They do not realise that they are being watched by terrorists.

They go to make breakfast when to their surprise, Lisa sees a man standing outside the window.

Max grabs the gun from the draw and shoots them within a blink of an eye. 

Lisa gives a loud shriek as she holds on to her police hat as the bullet goes past her and the men scurry off.

Peer assessed by Lola Lester - Lexie has applied the Todorov theory to her work and used crime drama conventions such as iconography of a gun and bullet.

Strauss- Binary Oppositions 

Binary Oppositions - a conflict between 2 opposites