Propps Theory!Media studies.

Vladmir proppIn the 1920, Vladimir Propp, was a Russian critic. Whilst

the cinema were producingmany films, Propp was essentially interested in the

narrative of folk tales.

He noticed that often many Folk tales were similar in a variety areas. He identified a

theory about characters and actions as narrative functions.

According the Vladimir Propp, characters have a narrative function; they provide a

structure for the text.

The typical characters he found were:

* The Hero – a character that seeks something.* The Villain – who opposes or actively blocks the hero’s

quest.* The Donor – who provides an object with magical

properties.* The Dispatcher – who sends the hero on his/her quest via

a message.* The False Hero – who disrupts the hero’s success by

making false claims.* The Helper – who aids the hero.* The Princess – acts as the reward for the hero and the

object of the villain’s plots.* Her Father – who acts to reward the hero for his effort.

In a struggle scene Vladimir Proppsuggested this theory:

* There is a struggle between thehero and the villain.* The hero is branded.* The villain is overcome.* The state of disorder is settled.

And the recognition scene:

* At this stage in the film the hero is recognised. (an action film, like superman)

* Or the false hero or villain is unmasked. (a horror film scene)

* As well as the false hero could be punished in this scene. (a cops and robbers scene)

* Or the hero attains the reward (princess/ kingdom).. and they live happily ever after. (a fairy-tale)