Research on Propp's Character Theory

Propp's Character Theory

Vladimir Propp

Vladimir Propp was a Russian film critic who was particularly interested in films based on folk tales. He was active mainly during the 20s and 30s, and eventually divised a book called 'Morphology of a Folk Tale' to showcase his theory.

Propp's Theory 

Propp came up with a theory that consisted of seven different character types that are required to fill a story. These are:

• the villain - an antagonist who creates grief for the hero
• the hero - the character who resolves any wronghoods
• the Princess - the woman desired by the hero
• the false hero - the person who takes credit for the hero's actions
• the donor - the character who gives the hero some kind of precious object
• the dispatcher 
• the helper - a magical entity that assists the hero

According to his theory, the story should always feature conflict between the hero and the villain, and the villain is typically overcome (whether it be by physical or emotion means).

-Anna Humphreys