Understanding narratives

Understanding narrativesOr why any story isnt as original as you might think...

To explore the common themes and ideas of ALL stories;

To begin to apply Todorovs Narrative Theory to your own favourite story.Lesson Objectives:

Discuss with a partner, then write down the definition of a what a story is. Your aim is to write this definition in one sentence only.

FEEDBACK...What is a story?

...An account of imaginary or real people and events told for entertainment.ABC discussion: To what extent do you agree or disagree with this definition?One definition states that all stories are...

The history of storytellingMake notes as you watch.

What do elements do all stories have?

Common story elements

Tzvetan Todorov believes that every narrative has the same five stages to it, based around the main character. Lets take a look:TODOROVS THEORY

EquilibriumLife is just right

Here, the main characters life is balanced and normal. There have been no disruptions to the main characters lifeyet. HOLES by LOUIS SACHAR: Stanley lives a normal school-boy life America, where his inventor dad tries (and usually fails) to invent new items. He lacks confidence and true friends.

1

TODOROVS THEORY

DisruptionA problem disrupts

The main characters life has suddenly been disrupted, shattering their previous equilibrium.HOLES by LOUIS SACHAR: Stanley is sent to Camp Green Lake for his (supposed) theft of some trainers. He is taken out of his normal life and family situation.

2

TODOROVS THEORY

RecognitionThe main character realises

The main character now begins to realise that their situation has changed and not for the better. HOLES by LOUIS SACHAR: Stanley begins to miss home. He feels isolated and bullied by his camp-mates (i.e. Armpit, The Lump) and realises that he must change. He wants to get back to his equilibrium.

3

TODOROVS THEORY

RepairRepairing the situation begins

The main character now sets out to right the wrongs and repair their situation, so that life can be as good as it was originally (equilibrium).HOLES by LOUIS SACHAR: Stanley teaches Zero how to read, and so gains confidence. He stands up for himself and learns self-respect; others begin to respect him too. He begins work out a way of leaving Camp Green Lake and seeing his family again.

4

TODOROVS THEORY

New EquilibriumThe character has gained a NEW equilibrium

The main character has worked through the problems and as a result, have gained back their equilibrium. However they have grown from their experience. Life is now BETTER than it was at the beginning of the narrative. HOLES by LOUIS SACHAR: Stanley gets to leave Camp Green Lake and return to his family. However, he has now grown due to his experience. He has gained confidence, self respect and real friends. His father is now a successful inventor; the family now have more money and more importantly more opportunity for further success and happiness in the future...

5

RepairDisruptionRecognitionEquilibriumNew EqilibriumHighs and lows of the main characterThe journey of the main characterLife is now better than before!

Any story is essentially someone improving / better understanding themselves through adversity.

If you think about it, this is exactly what life is!

Think about a period of your life where life has been fine; its then been disrupted; youve recognised this and tried to repair the situation; youve grown as a person and improved your life as a result of this. Discuss in pairs. Be prepared to share with the class.To sum up...

In the best stories, we can identify with the main characters situation.

Were pleased for them when they reach their New Equilibrium because we have all had to do this in some point in our lives, too. Weve all had to overcome challenges and have grown as a result.

If your story can make your reader identify with the main character and want them to improve their life, you have a good story. Its that simple!Why are we interested in stories?

Applying the theory 1: Night and DayNote down the five stages as you watch this short film by Dreamworks...

Applying the theory...Now have a go at applying Todorovs narrative theory to your own favourite story. This can be either a novel or a film.

Share your findings with the rest of the class. FEEDBACK

On your exit-card, write down:

The most important thing that you think youve learnt today.

One question you have that youd like to answered in next lesson. Plenary Exit Card

Applying the theory 2...

Now apply Todorovs theory to your own narrative. Can you fill all of the boxes?

An extra slide if your group is at the planning stage!19