Propps character theory with examples of horror

 

What is Vladimir Propp theory?

Vladimir Propp was a folklorist researcher interested in the relationship between characters and narrative . Propp argued that stories are character driven and that plots develop from the decisions and actions of characters and how they function in a story.

What are Propp’s functions?

Propp’s model consists of 31 consecutive “functions”, that is, steps that function in relation to the narrative as a whole, and an inventory of dramatis personae. The seven dramatis personae he deals with are: villain, donor, helper, princess/sought-for-person, dispatcher, hero, and false hero.

Propps character theory example of horror

Paranormal two is a good example as it has similar terms for hero's villains and victims and a variety of side characters which allows the horror film to fit into character theory.