Narrative theories applied to a modern version of Cinderella

A narrative is the way in which a story is told. There are several different theories that can be used to explain the way that stories are written.

The first of these is from Todorov. Todorov's theory suggests that all stories begin with an equilibrium (an everyday routine which is balanced and uninterrupted), then there is a disequilibrium (the balance and order is interrupted by something which is usually bad) and finally there is a new equilibrium (the original balance is usually restored to an extent, people may gain things or the bad things will be overcome).
In the modern version of Cinderella that we watched in class, Todorov's theory can be applied. The equilibrium is Cindy working as a full time cleaner in the archaeology unit of a university. Cindy works for a cruel director and is constantly overlooked by students of the university, including two young women of the archaeology department who are constantly competing with each other for the attention of the director and her guests. The disequilibrium occurs when a world renowned archaeologist - Hans M Prince - appeals to the university in an attempt to find a female archaeologist to accompany him on his next research trip to Borneo. Cinderella works hard and applies to the place, Prince is interested in her but when Cindy does not show up to her interview, after being informed by the director that she is forbidden from trying, Prince gives up hope that he will ever take Cindy with him and instead selects one of the other candidates. The new equilibrium at the end of the film occurs as against all odds, Cindy manages to secure herself as Prince's research partner, overcoming the students and director. At the last minute Prince decides to cancel his research and move away with Cindy instead, whom he has since fallen in love with.

The second narrative theory is of Propp's traditional characters and the roles they play within stories.

Protagonist- Cindy Mellor
Antagonist- Director & her two students
Heroine- Hans M Prince
Father- could be Hans M Prince as he offers the reward of the new job
Helper- Fellow cleaner
Donor- Fellow cleaner
Mentor- Fellow cleaner