Exploring Propp’s Narrative Theory: Character Roles in Storytelling
This overview discusses Vladimir Propp's narrative theory, focusing on the archetypal roles in storytelling. Key characters include the Hero, who leads the narrative and seeks to resolve a central problem; the Villain, who obstructs the Hero and often embodies the core conflict; the Heroine, often representing reward or support; the Father, an authority figure who initiates the quest; the Donor, who provides crucial assistance; the Mentor, guiding the Hero; and the Helper, who acts as a supportive sidekick. Explore how these roles shape narratives across genres.
Exploring Propp’s Narrative Theory: Character Roles in Storytelling
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Presentation Transcript
The Propp theory By Priyan Liyanage
The hero • Leads narrative • Can be male or female (heroine) • Searches for the source of a particular problem • Tries to solve the problem
The villain • Obstructs the hero from stopping the problem • Often challenges the hero to some sort of fight • Usually is the source of the problem • Sometimes is someone originally close to him
The heroine • A prize or reward for the hero (if the main character is the heroine then the male hero takes this role) • Often accompanies the hero or gives something to the hero to help them • Usually someone of the hero’s interest
The father • A figure of authority • Offers reward for ‘quest’ (e.g. money, the heroine, etc) • Often the person that sends the hero on the quest in the 1st place
The Donor • Gives the hero something to help with their ‘quest’ • In action films, usually gadgets or weapons, etc
The Mentor • Teaches and guides hero • Teaches the hero the ability to fight or another particular skill • Often is the donor too
The Helper • Helps the hero to complete ‘quest’ • Acts as sidekick
