Narrative Structure, Key Concepts, and Character Roles in Storytelling

Narrative

The structure and process of storytelling, including plot, characters, conflict, and themes.

Premise

The core idea or meaning behind a story.

Plot

The sequence of events that occur in a story.

Antagonist

A character who opposes the protagonist.

Narrative structure

The way a story is organised or arranged.

Linear narrative

A story told in chronological order.

Cause and effect structure

One event leads to a reaction, which causes another event.

Narrative resolution

The ending where conflict or disruption is resolved.

Equilibrium

The beginning state of normality before disruption.

Disequilibrium

The disrupted stage of the story where problems occur.

New equilibrium

The restored order after conflict is resolved.

Non-linear narrative

A story where time is disrupted and events are not in chronological order.

Flashback

A scene showing an event from the past.

Flashforward

A scene showing a future event.

Enigma code

A mystery or unanswered question that engages the audience.

Multi-stranded narrative

A story containing multiple plotlines or character arcs.

Story arc / narrative arc

A storyline that develops across time from beginning to end.

Binge watching

Watching many TV episodes back-to-back.

Long-form TV drama

High-quality TV series with film-style production, usually over several episodes.

Self-referential

A story that refers to itself or its own construction.

Intertextual reference

A text referencing another media text.

Narrative conflict

Struggle that drives the story forward.

Binary oppositions

Two opposing ideas or forces in a narrative.

Liberal

Supporting new or progressive ideas and individual freedom.

Ideological position

Beliefs and values expressed by a media text.

Protagonist / Hero

The main character the story focuses on.

Villain

The opposing character who challenges the protagonist.

Dispatcher

The character who sends the protagonist on their journey.

Helper

A supporting character who aids the protagonist.

Donor

A character who gives the protagonist something useful.

Princess

The reward/motivation for the protagonist.

False hero

A character who appears good but opposes the protagonist later.

Narratological devices

Storytelling techniques used to shape narrative structure.

Narrative disruption

The event that breaks equilibrium and drives the plot.

Conflict

Obstacles or struggles the characters must overcome.

Themes

The main ideas or issues explored in a story.