Uses and Gratification Theory: Blumer & Katz

Uses and Gratification theory is an approach focusing on the understanding of mass communication. The theory directs more focus on the audience, asking "what people do with the media" rather than "what media does to people" (Katz, 1959). It assumes the members of the audience are not passive but take an active role in interpreting and integrating media into their own lives. Moreover, the approach also suggests the audience are responsible for choosing media to meet their needs and  fulfil specific gratifications.

The theory states their are 4 basics needs of the user:

1. Diversion - escape from everyday issues.
2. Personal relationships - using the media for interaction.
3. Personal identity - learning behaviours and values from texts. Identifying with characters.
4. Surveillance -  useful information eg. news, weather reports etc.

Propps Theory

Vladimir Propp suggested in 1928 that in any story there are only ever a limited number of character types, each of which has their own purpose in the narrative.

Hero

The central protagonist of the narrative. Centralises in some kind of quest or mission undertaken in return for a reward. Traditionally male eg, Superman, Batman, Spiderman.

Heroine or Princess

These act as a reward for the hero for succeeding in the quest.

Villain

The villain seeks riches, glory and power, as well as seeking to stop the hero from succeeding in the quest or mission while presenting a genuine threat.

Donor or Mentor

Gives the hero important information or equipment to help them in their quest. They are often represented as wise or as having special powers but are not able to do the quest without the hero.

Helper

This character accompanies the hero for some or most of the journey of the quest, and can even help the hero to succeed, but cannot by themselves complete the quest.