Propp's Theory

Propp’s Theory

Vladimir Propp, born in 1895 and died in 1970 came up with the morphology of the fairytale in 1928.
He examined hundreds of fairytales in its generic form, he identified 8 characters and 31 functions which move the story along, for example the punishment of the villain. Another example is the ban of action for example in snow white she is not allowed to eat the apple or she will fall into a deep sleep.

The 8 Characters
The Villain
The Hero
The Donor
The Helper
The Princess
Her Father
The Dispatcher
The false Hero

The 31 Functions
Absentation
Interdiction
Violation Of Interdiction
Reconnaissance
Delivery
Trickery
Complicity
Villainy And Lack
Mediation
Beginning Counter-Action
Departure
First Function Of The Donor
Heroes Reaction
Receipt Of A Magical Agent
Guidance
Struggle
Branding
Victory
Liquidation
Return
Pursuit
Rescue
Unrecognized Arrival
Unfounded Claims
Difficult Task
Solution
Recognition
Exposure
Transfiguration
Punishment
Wedding