Todorov's Narrative Theory

  State of equilibrium
  Disruption of that order
  Recognition that the disruption has occurred
  An attempt to repair the damage
  A return or restoration of a new equilibrium




An example I used was from the film Toy Story 1


Firstly there is the state of equilibrium where all of Andy's toys are happy, this is before Andy's party.


Then there is the disruption (disequilibrium), Andy got a new toy for his birthday, the toy was called Buzz Light Year. Woody and Buzz Light Year become very competitive for Andy's attention.

Next is the Recognition of disruption. Buzz light year believes he can fly and is in fact a real space commander. Woody quickly becomes very jealous of Buzz. Woody then pushes Buzz out of the window, all of the other toys lose trust in Woody and start to dislike him.

As an attempt to repair disruption Woody tries to save Buzz and be friends again with the other toys.

A return or restoration of NEW equilibrium, Buzz and Woody work together and set a firework they very fortunately land in through the top of the car, and are back with Andy on their way to the new house.