Theories of narrative: Practice Questions

Which character type, as defined by Vladimir Propp, is responsible for providing the hero with a magical agent or technical assistance to help them on their quest?

In Propp’s morphology of the folktale, what is the primary function of the dispatcher?

According to narrative development theories, which stage refers to an event that breaks the initial calm and sets the story in motion?

Which narrative element is most essential for a media product to achieve closure?

In the study of narrative appeal, what term is used to describe a hook or mystery that keeps the audience curious about what will happen next?

Discuss how a media producer uses the narrative stages of disruption and resolution to create audience appeal and maintain engagement throughout a story.

Using Theories of narrative, explain how media producers use narrative development to engage an audience.

Part (a): Define the following stages of narrative development: disruption and resolution. (2 points)
Part (b): Explain the role of enigma and closure in maintaining audience appeal throughout a media product. (2 points)
Part (c): Using a specific media product you have studied, discuss how the narrative development (from exposition to resolution) contributes to the overall audience experience. (2 points)