2. Vladmirpropp A full description of the theory can be found: http://www.adamranson.plus.com/Propp.htm In the 1920, Vladimir Propp, was a Russian critic. Whilst the cinema were producing many 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.
3. 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 Propp suggested this theory: * There is a struggle between the hero 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 fairytale)
