Yu. M. Lotman and Contemporary Narratology

Abstract

The paper reconstructs the influence of the semiotic studies of Yu. Lotman on the formation of the problems and the research apparatus of modern (“post-classical”) multimedia narratology, associated with the names of J. Genette, P. Ricoeur, W. Schmid and others. In particular, the author discusses the emergence of scientific interest in the film narrative, which has also had a significant impact on literary narratology, enriching it with the constructive concept of the “narrative image”. The article focuses on Lotman’s storytelling research, especially the concept of “plot-driven texts” of culture in their opposition to “plotless texts”. Particular importance is attached to the distinction between plot and myth, which continued O. M. Freidenberg’s investigations into the origin of narration. Lotman’s pioneering role in mastering the scientific categories of “narrative worldview” and “narrative event” is described. The author reveals the place of Lotman's research heritage in the comprehension of narrative practices as a tool for mental appropriation of life, accumulation and retranslation of event experience, as well as in the birth and development of the modern project of historical narratology.

Keywords

• narratology
• film narrative
• myths
• plot-driven texts
• narrative events
• intrigues
• narrative worldview
• literary studies specialists.