Morphology of the Folktale, Diagram of Possible Function Combinations

Introduction

Propp emphasizes that though there are limited narrative functions, the combinatorial possibilities are vast. For example: how a hero receives a magical object. The first column lists possible precursors to the exchange (e.g. a test by the object’s donor, a skirmish with the object’s donor) and the second column lists the actual forms of transmission (e.g. sale, seizure). The chart shows which sub-functions of D (preparatory function of the donor) can lead to corresponding sub-functions of F (forms of transmission of magical agent). In other words, the chart shows the ways a hero might encounter the owner of a magical object and then acquire it (wrest it away, steal it, earn it…) for himself.

Additional Information

Label

Morphology of the Folktale, Diagram of Possible Function Combinations

Author

Vladimir Propp (translated by Laurence Scott)

Original Publication Date

1928

New Publication Date

1968

Publisher

University of Texas Press

Location

RBML

Case

2