Rationally Writing
Episode 11 - Story Structure, Part 1
Sep 25, 2016
Delve into the art of storytelling as the hosts dissect various narrative structures. Discover the compelling story circle model and its roots in the hero's journey. They explore the evolution of superheroes, shedding light on identity development driven by personal loss. Learn about masterful chapter structuring techniques and the significance of character arcs across narratives. The discussion also uncovers innovative storytelling methods like palindrome narratives and culminates in a look at time travel themes in fantasy literature.
42:30
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Quick takeaways
- The Story Circle, adapted by Dan Harmon, simplifies narrative structure into eight steps that enhance emotional engagement with the audience.
- Fractal structures in storytelling allow individual plots to contribute to a larger narrative arc, enriching both character development and thematic depth.
Deep dives
Understanding Story Structure Through the Hero's Journey
The Hero's Journey is a foundational narrative structure that many stories follow, as described by Joseph Campbell. This model highlights a sequence of events where a hero embarks on a quest, deals with challenges, experiences transformation, and ultimately returns home. Campbell’s analysis of myths across cultures demonstrates that successful narratives often share fundamental elements, indicating a common archetype in storytelling. The model serves as a guide for writers to create compelling plots that resonate with audiences on a deeper psychological level.
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