Roland Barthes, Todorov, Vladimir Propp and Levi-Strauss

In todays lesson we studied a multiple of different theorists' theories and discussed each of them.

Roland Barthes
Roland Barthes' theory was that there were 5 narrative codes. Also that a text can either be closed or open, closed meaning there is only one way to see a storyline however open means that there are multiple ways to think about a thread indicating lots of symbolism.

• Hermeneutic, commonly known as the Enigma code, is applied anywhere that there is unanswered or elements of mystery.
• Proairetic, also known as the Action code, meaning lots of action is used to draw the viewers attention and leave them hooked.
• Semantic code is anything that has more than one layer of meaning and has connotations.
• Symbolic code uses props to symbolise also applying the semiotics often used with colours.
• Referential code refers to some basic knowledge on the topic of film or place in which it is set etc.

Todorov
Todorov had a theory that every different story consisted of the same 5 stages.

• Happy
• Disruption of equilibrium
• Protagonist notices the disruption
• Restoration of equilibrium or attempted restoration
• New equilibrium

Vladimir Propp 
Propps theory was that in every storyline there are always 8 different character types.

1. Hero
2. Villain
3. Donor (helps hero)
4. Dispatcher
5. False Hero
6. Helper
7. Princess
8. Princess' Father

Levi-Strauss
Levi-Strauss' theory was that there are binary oppositions.