Narrative Theory Research - Todorov's Theory of Equilibrium

Todorov's Narrative Theory of Equilibrium

 

Tzvetan Todorov is a Bulgarian-French philosopher, historian and literary figure who came up with a theory that stated all storylines/plotlines follow the exact same pattern even if they are linear or non linear. There were five simple steps that all story/plotlines had:

 

1) Equilibrium- The story will begin with a happy start, revealing all the characters are content and that everything occurring so far is as it should be.

 

2) Disruption (of Equilibrium)- The story will then feature a minor problem that will disrupt the storyline.

 

3) Realisation (Dis-Equilibrium or Climax)- The characters in the film realise something has gone wrong (that there has been a disruption) and chaos ensues.

 

4) Restored Order (restore Equilibrium) - The characters attempt to repair any damage and resolve the problem.

 

5) New Equilibrium- The problem is resolved and the characters are content. Normality can resume, but the Equilibrium will never be the same as at the start of the film as the characters will never forget the disruption of Equilibrium.