AS Media Studies, 3rd Edition

2

Narrative

In this chapter we:

• consider the significance of narrative in both fiction and non-fiction texts
• look at narrative construction and mode of address
• examine the relationship between narrative and genre.

Narrative Construction

Narrative is the way in which a story is told in both fictional and non-fictional media texts. From our earliest days, narrative is an important part of our lives. For many people, their earliest recollections relate to bedtime stories or stories told by their teacher in primary school. Another reason why narrative is so important to us is that it acts as an organising principle that helps us make sense of the world. To a child the world is a mass of unconnected and incomprehensible events, some pleasurable, ...