Research & Planning - Todorov’s Narrative Structure

The conventional narrative structure pointed out by Todorov as a rule has five stages though this can be broken down to three stages; a beginning (state of equilibrium), middle (disruption to the equilibrium) and end (reinstate the equilibrium).
Equilibrium – it’s simply just a state of balance, normality in which the characters find themselves at the beginning.

Below is Todorov conventional narrative structure complete with five stages:

Stage 1
Equilibrium – A state of equilibrium is defined.

Stage 2
Problem introduced – Disruption to the equilibrium by some action or crisis.

Stage 3
Recognition of the problem – The Character(s) recognition that there has been a disruption, setting goals to resolve problem.

Stage 4
Conflict – The Character(s) attempt to repair the disruption, obstacles need to be overcome to restore order.

Stage 5
Resolution – Reinstatement to the equilibrium. Situation is resolved, a conclusion is announced.