Todorov's narrative theory, developed by Bulgarian-French literary theorist Tzvetan Todorov, outlines a five-stage structure that most narratives follow. His theory emphasizes that narratives are built around a process of transformation, where equilibrium is disrupted and eventually restored, albeit in a changed form. The five stages are:

​

1. Equilibrium: The story begins in a state of balance or normality, where characters are in a stable situation. As Todorov explains, "All stories begin with an equilibrium, where everything is in harmony and balance."

2. Disruption of Equilibrium: A force or event disrupts this initial state, creating a problem or conflict that needs to be resolved. Todorov describes this as "an action or event that disturbs the peaceful setting."

3. Recognition of Disruption: The characters realize the disruption, and the narrative focus shifts to addressing the problem. This stage marks the moment when "characters become aware of the threat or problem," leading them to react.

4. Attempt to Repair the Disruption: The characters take action to resolve the conflict and restore equilibrium. This often involves facing obstacles or challenges, a common feature of narratives. As Todorov notes, "The narrative is driven by the desire to restore balance, though the characters must undergo trials."

5. New Equilibrium: Finally, the narrative concludes with a restoration of equilibrium, though it’s often different from the initial state. The characters or world may have changed as a result of their experiences. "The new equilibrium is never identical to the initial situation," according to Todorov.

​

Todorov’s theory is often applied in media analysis to understand the structure of film, television, and literature. It highlights how disruption and resolution are key components of storytelling. Though simple, it provides a useful framework for identifying patterns in a wide range of narratives, from traditional stories to modern films.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

​​​

​

CHECK YOUR LEARNING​

​

1. What is the first stage of Todorov’s narrative theory?

2. How does Todorov define the concept of "equilibrium" in a narrative?

3. What event or element marks the transition from equilibrium to disruption in a narrative?

4. What is the significance of the "recognition of disruption" stage in Todorov's theory?

5. How do characters typically respond once they recognise the disruption in the narrative?

6. What is meant by the "attempt to repair the disruption" in the context of Todorov's narrative stages?

7. How does the final stage of "new equilibrium" differ from the original equilibrium, according to Todorov?

8. How can Todorov's theory be applied to analysing the structure of films or TV shows?

9. In what way does Todorov’s narrative theory focus on transformation within a story?

10. Why is the "attempt to repair the disruption" a critical part of moving the narrative forward?

11. How does Todorov’s concept of "new equilibrium" reflect character development or thematic changes?

12. What kinds of stories might not fit Todorov’s traditional five-stage narrative structure, and why?

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​