Narrative

Narrative-Is a structure or chain of events in which a story is told.

Its carefully considered when writing screenplay for a drama which is then visually achieved through the editing of different shots put together.

Why is narrative important?

• Narrative provides a structure chosen to directly affect how the audience experiences the story.
• The way the story is told can provide certain messages and values about who we see and what is being said. 
• It can affect the audiences involvement with and the enjoyment of the drama.
• Narrative in LFTVD is complex with multiple narrative strands and story lines. 

Types of narrative structure 

Linear narrative - a clear beginning, middle and end. Chronological time frame. Action A leads to action B etc.

Fragmented Narrative (non-linear) - a disrupted or disjointed time lapse. Events/actions shown out of chronological order. This narrative technique is used to help show parallel (supernatural) worlds which can also closely replicate the ways in which the human mind works. Audience participation to try and piece together the story themselves which makes it more interactive. 

Narrative structure answer example

Stranger things employs a fragmented narrative because right from the start we witness multiple parallel plot lines such as the laboratory, Eleven and the boys. We are also provided with a non-chronological narrative strand in the flashback to Joyce and Wills conversation in castle Byers. The fragmented narrative is an enigma and questions for the audience, who have to work to figure out the connection, therefore ensuring greater audience engagement within the episode.  

Types of narrative

Restricted narrative - We as an audience experience the sense and thoughts of just one character (always mostly just focused on the protagonists story line). Narrative cannot tell the audience things that the main character does not know. 

Omnipresent narrative - A panoramic, view of the world not just one, provides point of view for many characters, helps audience see a broader background and is used for telling stories. 

Narrative answer example

The omnipresent narrative provides multiple gratifications for the audience - we can emphasize and identify with some characters, while gaining escapism and mystery from others.

Types of narrative endings

Closed endings - TV dramas traditionally feature one characters story or point of view in an episode, which comes to a resolution at the end. Characters story can exist as one unique story in one episode. Story unraveled before an audience, bought to a conclusion at end of episode. 

Open endings - Episode ends on cliff-hanger. Story-telling technique. In films open endings can be unsatisfying for audiences. Allows continuation of the story. Open ending encourages viewer to continue watching (binge). 

Theorist's 

TODOROV: Equilibrium theory
Narrative is chronological and has a linear sequence of themes.

1. equilibrum (Harmony/exposition)
2. disequilbrium (Downfall/introduction of conflict)
3. recognition (climax)
4.resolution (restore)
5. new equilibrium

STRAUSS: Binary oppositions
We understand the world by the relationship two opposites have together. Narratives arranged around conflict of binary oppositions e.g. man VS woman.