Narrative Theory 1

·         Barthe’s enigma code is a theory that suggests a text on any format of media which portrays a mystery. Generate questions into the minds of viewers, enticing them into the story/image.

·         An example of this would be a classic murder mystery. The murderer will not be revealed until the end. But the story often begs the question, “who is the murderer?”

Todorov’s 5 stages of narrative

-The theory of equilibrium and disequilibrium

·         There refers to the fictional environment begins with a state of equilibrium. Equilibrium refers to everything as it should be.

·         It then suffers some disruption. This is what is referred to as disequilibrium.

Disequilibrium – a loss or lack of equilibrium or stability, especially in relation to supply, demand and prices

Equilibrium – A state in which opposing forces or influences are balanced.

Barthes’ suggested that there will be 5 codes that describe the meaning of a text. Some may be unravelled in various ways, or some may be closed, where there is only one lead to follow.

Here are the five codes:

1)      Heremeneutic/ Enigma code

2)      Proairectic/ Action code

3)      Semantic code

4)      Symbolic code

5)      Referntial code

1)      This code refers to mystery within text, hints are given. But there are no obvious give-aways. These can intrigue the audience, or leave them extremely frustrated.

2)      Proairetic/Action code – this code contains sequential elements of action in the text, to add suspense.

3)      Refers to when parts of the text have additional meanings, referred to as Semes.

4)      This code is about symbolism within text. It showcases different things to show contrast and much more, to develop a deeper meaning. Such as Tension or character development.

5)      This code refers to anything in the text which refers to an external body, such as scientific, historical or cultural knowledge. Referential code.

Which one will be most useful to me?