Todorov: equilibrium, disruption and new equilibrium

Overview

The three states of order, why the final equilibrium is new rather than restored, and where the model fits serial narrative badly.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What is the central proposition of Todorov's theory of narrative structure?

   Model answer

   That narratives follow a pattern moving through distinct stages from stability through disruption to resolution.

2. 2

   In Todorov's theory, what is meant by equilibrium?

   Model answer

   The initial state of balance and normality at the beginning of a narrative, before any disruption occurs.

3. 3

   What constitutes disruption in Todorov's narrative theory?

   Model answer

   The event or action that disturbs the initial equilibrium, creating conflict and driving the narrative forward.

4. 4

   How does the new equilibrium differ from the original equilibrium in Todorov's theory?

   Model answer

   The new equilibrium is a restored state of balance at the end of a narrative, but it differs from the original equilibrium due to the changes caused by the disruption.

5. 5

   Why does Todorov's model describe the final equilibrium as 'new' rather than simply restored?

   Model answer

   Because the characters and situation have been transformed by the events of the narrative, so the balance achieved is different from the original state.

6. 6

   What does Todorov mean by narrative structure?

   Model answer

   The underlying pattern of movement between states of order that recurs across narratives, rather than the surface events of any particular plot.

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