Narrative Theory - Tzvetan Todorov

Todorov’s Narrative Theory

Tzvetan Todorov’s narrative theory suggests that all narratives follow a 3 part structure where they begin with equilibrium, where everything is balanced, progress as something comes along to disrupt that equilibrium, and finally reach a resolution, when equilibrium is restored.

This simple formula can be applied to virtually all narratives - it is a more formal way of thinking about the beginning, middle and end, and it takes into account Aristotle's theory that all drama is conflict. This states that there is a disequilibrium at the heart of every narrative.