OCR GCSE Media Studies: Narrative Theories and Structure in Media

Unraveling the Narrative: A Guide to GCSE Media Studies

This tutorial dives into the fascinating world of narrative theories and structures, crucial concepts for understanding how stories are constructed in media. This knowledge is particularly relevant for your Component 1 exam, focusing on CSPs (Contemporary Social Issues Programs) in television.

1. Unveiling the Blueprint: Propp's Character Archetypes

Vladimir Propp, a Russian folklorist, identified recurring character archetypes that drive narratives across different stories. By understanding these roles, you can analyze how characters contribute to the narrative's overall structure.

Key Archetypes:

• Hero: The protagonist who embarks on a quest and overcomes challenges.
• Villain: The antagonist who opposes the hero and creates conflict.
• Donor: Provides the hero with an object or information necessary for the quest.
• Helper: Assists the hero in their journey.
• Princess: The reward for the hero, often in need of rescue.
• False Hero: Pretends to be helpful but ultimately hinders the hero.

Application: Consider how these archetypes manifest in your chosen CSP. For example, does a documentary on homelessness feature a "hero" who advocates for change? Does a news program highlight a "villain" responsible for social injustice?

2. The Equilibrium and Its Disruption: Todorov's Narrative Theory

Tzvetan Todorov's narrative equilibrium theory provides a framework for analyzing the structure of stories. It argues that most narratives follow a specific pattern:

Stages:

1. Equilibrium: A state of balance or normalcy at the beginning.
2. Disruption: An event or conflict that upsets the equilibrium.
3. Recognition: Characters acknowledge the disruption and attempt to resolve it.
4. Attempt to Repair: Characters take action to restore the equilibrium.
5. New Equilibrium: A new state of balance is achieved, potentially different from the initial one.

Application: How does a CSP create an initial sense of equilibrium? What event disrupts this equilibrium? How do characters attempt to repair the disruption? By analyzing these elements, you can understand the narrative arc and its impact on viewers.

3. The Enigma Code: Unraveling the Mystery

Roland Barthes, a French literary theorist, introduced the concept of "enigma codes," which refer to elements within a narrative that create suspense and intrigue. These codes raise questions in the viewer's mind, encouraging them to actively participate in the story.

Types of Enigma Codes:

• Hermeneutic Code: Questions about the plot, characters, or motives.
• Proairetic Code: Questions about the actions that will occur next.
• Semic Code: Questions about the meaning of symbols or objects within the story.
• Cultural Code: Questions relating to the social, historical, or cultural context.

Application: Identify the enigma codes within a CSP. For example, a documentary about climate change might present "hermeneutic codes" by highlighting conflicting viewpoints or "proairetic codes" by suggesting future consequences.

4. Beyond the Theory: Applying the Concepts

Understanding narrative theories is not just about memorizing terms. It's about applying them to real-world media examples. Here's how:

• Choose a CSP: Select a television program related to social issues that interests you.
• Analyze the narrative: Identify the key characters, the equilibrium, the disruption, the enigma codes, and how these elements contribute to the overall story.
• Develop a critical perspective: Consider the impact of the narrative on the audience, the message it conveys, and how it reflects social issues.

By applying these concepts, you will gain a deeper understanding of how narratives function in television, enhance your analytical skills, and excel in your GCSE Media Studies exam.