Barthes and Propp’s Theory.

Barthes and Propp’s Theory.

Bathes suggested that all narrative is made up of props, sequences and images. The plot will use ‘cardinal functions’ which are main events that structure the story.  Also they will use ‘catalyses’ which are there to change the course of the narrative to make it less predictable for the viewers. This theory is seen in my music as I have used cardinal functions such as the use of bright colours for the artist costumes and natural lighting and locations, which are the main focus in my video to represent my artist in a positive and independent way. Also another cardinal function I have used in my music video to represent a main event is in the picnic seen, where the artist is having a picnic with a wasp, this is to show and reveal to the audience more about the song and the isolation the artist feels. In my music video I have also used catalyzes to make my video less predictable for example in the beginning seen of the artist running down the stairs which has been fast forwarded this was to create mystery and draw the audience.  I also created this panic by adding in an alarm going off in the background. Another way I have created catalyses is in a close up shot of the artist sitting alone in a café, where I slowly reveal in a long shot of exposing the reality of the way she feels such as being entirely on her own.

Propp’s suggested that there are 8 types of characters in a narrative, that are interchangeable characters that have clear functions in order to fuel narrative. In my music video the artist can be identified as the hero as she is on her own quest in order to find her own identity as she is finding a way of fitting in and being part of a group.However, the artist may also be seen as a ‘princess’ as she is in a vulnerable position of being alone for example in the lyrics “In this lonely atmosphere”. This also can be seen in the close up shots of her direct contact with the audience looking emotional and isolated. Another example of the artist being identified as a ‘princess’ would be in the slow motion dancing in circles, which I edited in a ‘dream’ effect to resemble that she is not changing.