Propp's narrative structure outlines a typical hero's journey in 9 stages: 1) preparation where all is well, 2) a complication arises when a villain harms the hero's family, 3) the hero plans action against the villain, 4) the hero receives a magical gift, 5) the hero arrives where the quest can be fulfilled, 6) a struggle ensues between hero and villain, 7) the hero escapes, 8) a task is set for the hero, 9) the hero accomplishes the task and is rewarded. The document also outlines common character archetypes in stories, including the hero, villain, helper, mentor, and prize.

1. Propp’s Narrative Structure

2. Narrative Structure
Preparation A community or family is in an ordered state of being
Complication The villain harms a member of the hero’s family
The hero plans action against the villain
Transference The hero is given a magical gift
The hero arrives at the place he can fulfill his quest
Struggle There is a struggle between the hero and the villain
Return The hero escapes
A task is set for the hero
The hero accomplishes the task
Recognition The hero is rewarded

3. Character Archetypes

4. The Hero
• The central protagonist who drives the
narrative forward, has a quest that must be
undertaken in order for a reward.
• Eg. Eragon

5. The Villain
• Seeks riches, glory and or power. Wants to
stop the hero succeeding in their quest while
portraying themselves as a threat to it.
• Eg. King Galbatorix

6. The Helper
• Accompanies the hero during part or the
majority of their adventure and offers help
but cannot complete the quest themselves.
• Eg. Samwise Gamgee

7. The Mentor
• Gives the hero information or equipment to
assist tem during their quest; can be magical
and often represented as wise. Cannot do the
quest without the hero.
• Eg. Obi Wan Kenobi

8. The Prize
• The reward for the hero when they succeed in
their quest, stereotypically the princess but in
modern times can be a strong willed
character.
• Eg. Lois Lane