Based on Structuralism – narratives have things in common and have structure.

Narratives are about time and space – usually linear and sequential. Structured around a theme.

Aristotle said that ‘a whole must have a beginning, a middle and a end’

Story – associated with themes and meaning – mise-en-scene etc.

Plot – how the things are arranged – the order

Theorists:

Todorov – Tripartite structure – Equilibrium leads to Disruption then a new Equilibrium – somebody is murdered and then I am on my own – blood on me at start and end.

Levi-Strauss – Binary Oppositions – Good vs Bad etc. – Loneliness vs Friendship

Propp – Character Types – Stock characters such as the hero who saves the day.

Chatman – Satellites and Kernel – Satellites are developments (non-essentials) and Kernels (essential elements such as characters)