Magic Tales: 7 Basic Elements

Magic Tales

7 Basic Elements of Plot

(according to Vladimir Propp)

1. Initial situation: the hero; prosperous family; happy kingdom.

2. Harm: disruption of the initial situation.

3. Meeting of the donor: a helper character gives the hero a magical object or knowledge (sometimes a test is required – the hero must act properly towards the donor).

4. The object of the search.

5. Struggle with the antagonist.

6. Return. Pursuit or struggle with the antagonist (not both).

• Entrance of false heroes; obstacles not created by the antagonist.

7. Marriage.

Difficult tasks can be inserted at any stage.

7 Basic Functions of Characters

(according to Vladimir Propp)

1. Antagonist

2. Dispatcher: the one who sends the hero on his quest.

3. Donor.

4. Magical Helper (often an animal).

5. Princess sought after. She always has a father.

6. Hero

7. False hero