Narrative:Levi-strauss

Levi-Strauss and binary oppositions(two things opposite to each other).

Levi-Strauss argued that a structure of narratives was a dependence on binary oppositions.

A conflict between two qualities or terms.

These binary oppositions can form the basis of narratives.

E.g. Young<> Old, Male<> Female

For example: Gender- Narratives can be organized through binary oppositions of gender stereotypes.

Gender Stereotypes: Masculine

Professional

Strong

Rational

Competitive

Independent

Aggressive

Ruthless

Ambitious

Gender Stereotypes: Feminine

Domesticated

Weak

Emotional

Co-operative

Communal

Passive

Sensitive

Supportive

Binary oppositions( Levi-Strauss)

Constructions of gender roles in narratives lead to a series binary oppositions

Dominant vs subordinate

Dominant

Male

White

Middle class

Middle aged

Heterosexual

Able-bodied

Subordinate

Female

Other ethnic groups

Working class

The young, The old

Homosexual,Bisexual

Disabled

Example-The western

Homesteaders-Native Americans

Christian-Pagan

Domestic-Savage

Weak-Strong

Feminine-Masculine

Garden-Wilderness

Inside society-Outside society

Example: The Iraq and Afghanistan wars

East-West

Barbarism-Civilization

Feudal-Modern

Despotism-Democracy

Fundamentalism-Freedom

Backward dirty weapons-Modern "clean weapons"