Propps Character Theory - Narrative

"Propps narrative theory of narrative seems to be based in a male orientated environment (due to his theory actually reflecting early folk tales) and as such critics often dismiss the theory with regard to film.  However, it may still be applied because the function (rathe rthan the gender) of characters is the basis of the theory.  E.g. the hero could be a woman; the reward could be a man.

Critics argue that Propp's strict order of characters and events is restrictive.  We should rather apply the functions and events randomly as we meet new narratives.  E.g. the hero may kill the villain earlier than Propp expects.  Changing the traditional format will change the whole way the text is recieved.

Some critics claim there are many more character types that Propp suggests and we should feel free to identify them. E.g. the stooge in a sci-fi film, who is usually nameless and killed early on to suggest the power of the alien force, is a typical modern character type."

Story - Sequence of events (plot)

Narrative - presentation to the audience (events put together)

Analysis

Construction

Theme

. All media texts have a narrative

Types of character

The Villain - Against hero

The Helper - Hero's "sidekick"

The Princess/Prize - Helpless, useless

Her Father - Gives task

The Doner - Gives something to hero

The Hero - Main character

The Dispatcher - Sends hero on mission

False Hero - Pretend hero

The Rougue Hero? The Underdog? E.g. Jack Sparrow, Pirates Of The Carribean

Why is this theory useful?

It avoids treating characters as if they are individuals and reminds us they are merely constructs.  Some characters are indeed there just to progress the narratives.