Audio-Visual Narrative and Character Construction

The collective unconscious is a shared reservoir of common human experiences, instincts, and archetypes. It influences our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The individual unconscious, on the other hand, is unique to each person and contains personal memories, experiences, and repressed material.

Archetypes are universal patterns of behavior, images, and symbols that appear in myths, stories, and dreams. They represent fundamental human experiences and psychological drives, such as the hero, the villain, the mother, and the wise old man.

Jung believed that archetypes shape the form and function of literary works, and that a text's meaning is shaped by cultural and psychological myths. The recurring images, symbols, or patterns associated with archetypes bring pre-existing meaning to a work.

The 12 Archetypes proposed by Carl Jung describe recurring patterns in human personality and behavior. Each archetype represents a distinct set of values, motivations, and desires.

Propp's functions are a set of 31 story elements or actions that appear in folktales and myths. Each function represents a specific event or action that drives the plot forward. They offer a framework for analyzing the structure of stories.

A common technique used in cinema to portray characters using easily recognizable traits like clothing or behavior. These traits make the character quickly understood by the audience.

The ability of the audience to connect with a character on an emotional level, understanding their thoughts and motivations. This is achieved through narrative techniques like showing the character's perspective and building their personality.

Characters in films are built and presented in ways that can influence how audiences perceive certain groups of people. This can lead to criticism when films portray specific groups in ways that reinforce negative stereotypes or generalizations.

Characters in a film can represent either individual people or larger groups, like a family, a nation, or a social class.

Characters in a story often have a specific goal or desire that drives their actions. This can be a physical object, a person, or an abstract concept.

The rise of actors to fame and recognition within the film industry. Often, this is connected to strong characters they portray.

A character arc refers to the transformation a character undergoes throughout a story, often marked by changes in their beliefs, skills, or understanding of themselves.

These characters remain static throughout the narrative; they don't experience significant personal growth or transformation.

These characters are dynamic and evolve as they face challenges and learn from their experiences. They grow and change as the story progresses, often surprising the reader with their development.

A key element in storytelling, it's the driving force behind the plot. Often, it's a weakness or flaw that initially prevents the protagonist from overcoming obstacles.

This refers to the obstacles and challenges that the main character must confront in the story.

These individuals guide and support the protagonist's development, providing insight, advice, and training. They often help the protagonist see new perspectives and learn crucial skills.

These are the skills, knowledge, and wisdom that a character gains through their experiences. They are often crucial for overcoming challenges and achieving their goals.

The environment in which the story takes place plays a critical role in shaping the protagonist's growth and development.

A recurring musical theme or motif that is associated with a particular character, often used to identify them or to evoke their presence.

Distinct physical features, clothing, or other visual aspects that help differentiate a character from others.

The actions a character performs, which can reveal their personality, motivations, and role in the story.

A pivotal moment or event that significantly shapes a character's development, understanding, or motivations.

The specific environment or setting where a character is often found, which can contribute to their identity and personality.

The initial introduction of a character, often including their first appearance, actions, and dialogue.

Films that primarily focus on visual experiences and abstract concepts rather than character-driven narratives. Often utilize unconventional filmmaking techniques.

Using diverse elements like leitmotifs, physical aspects, actions, spaces, defining moments, and initial presentations to effectively identify and portray characters.

A method of character development offering a deep understanding of a character's emotions, motivations, and struggles, promoting empathy between the viewer and the character.

Character development where viewers are not privy to the character's subjective thoughts or feelings, focusing on their external actions and interactions.

A universally recognized character type with specific traits and roles within a story, appearing across various narratives. This is often common in Hollywood and Disney productions.

These are common roles or functions that characters fulfill within a narrative, helping to structure the plot. Think of the 'hero's journey', where characters like the 'mentor' and the 'villain' always play specific roles.

A central figure in a story who drives the action and often serves as the protagonist, motivating the viewer to connect and identify with them. They have a mission or goal they must achieve.

These are recurring symbolic patterns or motifs in literature, art, and mythology that represent fundamental human experiences and psychological structures. Think of the 'shadow' archetype representing the darker side of our nature.

These are characters who are more complex and multifaceted, allowing for greater depth and understanding of their motivations, thoughts, and actions. They may have both positive and negative traits, making them more realistic and relatable to the audience.

These characters are less developed and often serve specific functions within the story. They may have limited personality traits and are often predictable, contributing to the overall structure and flow of the narrative.

A protagonist who lacks a clear objective or whose personality doesn't conform to societal norms. Think about a hero who is flawed, unconventional, and often operates outside the boundaries of conventional morality. They may even have questionable ethics or methods.

The darker side of the hero. This can represent their repressed emotions, potential for evil, or even their internal struggles. It can be a force within them that threatens their progress or a figure who actively opposes their path.

The hero's wisdom giver. They guide and train the hero, offering knowledge, advice, and support. Think of a mentor as a teacher or a wise older figure.

Obstacles that stand in the hero's way. They represent challenges, tests, and barriers the hero needs to overcome on their path. These obstacles can be physical, emotional, or psychological.

Change or transformation. This represents characters who can shift or alter their appearance or nature. They embody the concept of change in life.

Characters who support the hero. They offer help, encouragement, and companionship throughout the hero's journey. Think of friends, allies, or companions who help the hero in their quest.