Theories of Narrative (3).

Levi-Strauss and Binary Oppositions.

- Levi-Strauss argued that a structure of narratives was a dependence on binary oppositions, which means a conflict between two qualities or terms.
- These binary oppositions can form the basis of narratives.

E.g.
Young <-> Old,
Male <-> Female

Narratives can be organised through binary oppositions of gender stereotypes:

Gender Stereotypes : Masculine =

Professional

Rational

Strong

Competitive

Independent

Aggressive

Ruthless

Gender Stereotypes : Feminine =
Domesticated
Emotional
Communal
Weak
Co-operative
Passive
Sensitive
Supportive


Binary Oppositions
- Constructions of gender roles in narratives lead to a series of binary oppositions.
- Dominant vs. Subordinate.

Dominant
- Male, white, middle class, middle-aged, hetrosexual, able-bodied.

Subordinate
- Female, other ethnic groups, working class, the young, old, homosexual, bisexual.


Example - The Western
- Homesteaders <-> Native Americans
- Christian <-> Pagan
- Domestic <-> Savage
- Weak <-> Strong
- Feminine <-> Masculine
- Garden <-> Wilderness
- Inside society <-> Outside society.

Example : The Wars in Iraq + Afghanistan
- East <-> West
- Barbarism <-> Civilisation
- Feudal <-> Modern
- Despotism <-> Democracy
- Fundamentalism <-> Freedom
- Backward 'dirty' weapons <-> Modern 'clean' weapons.