Narrative Analysis 101
Understanding Stories
Intro
Narrative analysis is the examination and interpretation of story, using tools such as structure, characters, and themes to break down narratives into their component parts. At Cutscene University, our goal is to teach the study of story using the vast collection of video game narratives that have been developed since the category’s inception. To examine these narratives in detail, we’ve provided a series of essays covering the basics of analysis, as well as a set of next-level studies for students who wish to learn more. By reading these essays, students should have everything they need to advance to Cutscene University’s StoryScan section, which focuses on the strengths and weaknesses of individual games.
the basics
Structure
Different ways to arrange scenes to tell a cohesive story.
Characters
Protagonists, antagonists, and foils are just some of the roles to fill in fictional worlds.
Themes
Tying stories to meaningful questions through repeated ideas and imagery.
Setting
Creating worlds by anchoring stories in time and place.
In-Depth: Structure
Three-Act Structure
One of the earliest known structures, Three-Act Structure divides stories into beginning, middle, and ending.
Five-Act Structure
Frequently used in theater, Five-Act structure marks the midpoint as the height of tension, rather than the closing.
The Story Circle
A condensed version of the Hero’s Journey, emphasizing the growth of the protagonist.
The Beat Sheet
An adaptation of the Hollywood formula, tailored for television and movies.
Kishotenketsu
A four-act structure that de-emphasizes conflict, focusing instead on complications and change.
The Feminine Journey
A feminist interpretation of the Hero’s Journey that focuses on emotional growth.
In-Depth: Character
Character Archetypes
Character archetypes are commonly recognized templates that work as narrative shorthand in simple stories.
Character Arcs
Character Arcs represent the way characters change with the progression of the story.
Character Strengths
Well-rounded characters need strengths to achieve their goals, but too many strengths can make them unrelatable.
Character Flaws
Character flaws are internal obstacles for characters to overcome in pursuit of their goals.
Next Steps
Think you’ve mastered the basics? If you’re ready to move on, head to Narrative Analysis 201, where we teach you next level literary techniques to improve your reading, writing, and critique skills.