Tuesday 6 October 2009

The Shining - Narrative Structure

Propp outlined a list of 31 functions to create a basic structure for all fairy-tales. After watching The Shining i am going to attempt to apply the story line to this narrative structure.

Characters
Villian - Jack (father) Visible signs of Jack being the villian are seen at the very beginning of the film for example, when in the car Jack says "he saw it on tv!" in a strange tone of voice which isn't normal.

Helper - Dick Hallovan (Cook) He teaches Danny about the Shining and explains what 'Tony' is making Danny become more understanding.

Hero or Victim - Wendy (mum) Wendy is the primary person that Jack is after. She's also the character that fights against him and lives to tell the tale.

False Hero - Dick Hallovan (Cook) At the beginining Dick seems like a character that would save both Wendy and Danny from hysterical Jack. However, he is not a very prominent character after the helping of Danny's shining gift.

Preparation
1. Jack leaves home for his interview
2. rule; "don't enter room 237"
3. Danny enters room 237


Complication
?

This film does not fit into Propps basic narrative structure as the events that occur are not as predictable because the horror genre likes to build suspense and generate fear among the audience.

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