Propp’s theory was based on traditional folk stories, but his ideas show that there are key stages of narrative and character types that are found in most stories. Many contemporary narratives will feature some of these elements, but it is important to remember that every media product will be different, so similar narratives will not always have the same features. Another key element of narrative relates to the conflict at the heart of the story. Many narratives are constructed around binary oppositions. This is a theory that was developed by Claude Lévi-Strauss, a French theorist who proposed that narratives may be structured around pairs of opposing forces. These could be characters, for example hero versus villain, but they can also be more abstract concepts, such as good versus evil, or humans versus nature. One of these will usually triumph over the other in a narrative, and this communicates messages and viewpoints about the world. For example ‘good’ usually conquers ‘evil’ as the message reinforces society’s view that this is the right or ‘natural’ thing to happen. It also constructs a positive view of the world that provides the audience with a reassuring ‘happy’ ending. Many narratives are based around a conflict between a hero and a villain. In many, but not all, cases the hero will win. Can you think of any media products where a hero has failed? Stretch and Challenge 1.6 Analyse the narrative elements in the poster for Titanic. • What stories or elements of narrative are shown? • Which of Propp’s character types can you identify? How are these signified? • What enigmas does the poster create? What questions might you ask about the narrative? • Are there any examples of binary oppositions? Activity 1.2 Binary oppositions Pairs of ‘opposites’ (characters or abstract ideas) that come into conflict within a narrative. The outcome of the conflict can communicate messages, for example that the hero ‘should’ defeat the villain and restore equilibrium. Abstract concept An idea, such as beauty or happiness, rather than a physical object or something that exists. Key Terms 23 1 The Media Studies Theoretical Framework
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