Todorov - Stated that all narratives follow a basic structure. This structure involves an equilibrium (a period of calm which introduces us to the everyday life of the main characters), then a disequilibrium (a period of unsettlement in which the main character has a problem to solve) which is finally followed by a new state of peace and harmony known as a new equilibrium. This is often refered to as the'classic' or 'hollywood' style of narrative and is the simplest form. It can also be described as equilibruim, disturbance and resolution.
Propp - Discovered that there are 8 basic character types. These are: the hero, the villain, the donor, the dispatcher, the false hero, the helper, the princess and her father. His theory did not state that all these characters had to be seperate people and so a particular character could be more than one of these character types. He stated that each character type has a 'sphere of action' and once you have worked out the character type it is easy to work out what their role will be within the narrative (for example the hero will save the maiden or defeat the villian or both).
Barthes - Established that a narrative will establish enigmas and mysteries as it goes along. These enigmas provide clues as to what will happen at the end of the narrative and the aim of the narrative is to solve the mysteries that are established throughout it. This is known as the enigma code.
Levi-Strauss - The theory of binary opposition states that narrative tension is based on conflict or opposition. This can be through two opposite sides fighting which is the simplest form of binary oppostion but is often on a more ideological level. Often the conflicting sides will embody different ideologies eg. in Star Wars the rebellion represents good and the empire represents evil.
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