Propp's character functions
Vladimir Propp's structuralist framework identifying archetypal character roles in narratives: the hero, villain, dispatcher, helper, donor, sought-for person, and false hero.
Real World
In the Harry Potter series, Propp's functions map precisely: Harry is the hero, Voldemort the villain, Dumbledore the dispatcher and donor, Hermione the helper, and Ginny partly the sought-for person — showing Rowling consciously or unconsciously drew on ancient narrative archetypes.
Exam Focus
Apply Propp critically — identify which functions are absent or merged to show how the text subverts or conforms to narrative convention.
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