Television: Media Language- Todorov, Barthes, Neale, Levi Strauss, Baudrillard

Understanding Theories and Media Language in Television

Todorov’s Theory

Todorov’s narratological model for storytelling includes three steps: equilibrium, disruption, and restoration. Most TV shows, especially sitcoms and dramas, follow this structure.
The equilibrium is the normal state of affairs at the beginning of a television programme.
The disruption is a conflict or problem introduced that needs to be resolved.
The final restoration of equilibrium brings a resolution to the conflict, often establishing a ‘new normal’.

Barthes’ enigma codes

Roland Barthes’ theory delineates five codes that form the basis of narrative action, including the enigma code. These codes offer analytical insight into the story structure in televisual narratives.
The enigma code creates the mysteries, puzzles and questions that propel the narrative forward, driving both interest and viewer engagement.
Often, television shows use cliffhangers or unresolved conflicts, which are a part of the enigma code, to encourage viewers to tune in for subsequent episodes.

Neale’s Theory of Genre

Steve Neale’s theory focuses on how genres are not static, but evolve over time. This concept reflects the fluidity and adaptability of television programming.
Neale argues that genres are defined by two contradictory forces: repetition and difference. Audiences come for familiarity but stay for the innovative changes or spin put on that familiarity.
The endless cycle of new television programmes and series showcases his theory, with new plot twists, character developments or innovative formats offering a fresh perspective in familiar genre conventions.

Levi-Strauss: Binary Oppositions

Levi-Strauss introduced the concept of binary oppositions in storytelling, deriving from his anthropology work. Most television narratives rely heavily on this theory.
This creates conflict between two opposite ideas or characters (e.g., good vs evil, nature vs culture) that keep viewers engaged due to their inherent drama and tension.
Understanding such oppositions can help analyse and predict narrative outcomes and character developments in a TV program, enhancing the viewer’s experience.

Baudrillard’s Simulacra and Simulation

Baudrillard’s theory, often used in media studies, discusses how simulations of reality have become more real than reality itself, creating a hyperreality. This concept is relevant to many contemporary TV series.
Reality TV and docudramas embody this theory, often representing staged or scripted moments as ‘real life’ experiences.
The consumption of such content without questioning its authenticity reflects our acquiescence to the blurred boundaries between genuine reality and hyperreality.

Remember, these theories are not mutually exclusive and can be used together to explore and understand the complex narrative structures and genres of television. Understanding these theories can enhance your ability to critically analyse and deconstruct various elements of television programming.