Western Narrative: From Epic Poetry to Interactive Media

Stories shape how we perceive reality, express our deepest desires, and construct our cultural identities. To truly understand literature, film, and modern media, we must first understand the fundamental structures of narrative that have evolved over millennia. In this text-based course, you will trace the history of Western storytelling, learning how narrative forms adapt to new technologies—from oral performance to the printed page, the silver screen, and interactive digital environments. You will develop a critical toolkit to dissect how stories are built, why they resonate, and how they reflect the historical moments that produced them. What you'll learn: - Understand the foundational elements of narrative theory, including plot structure, character development, and point of view. - Analyze the transition of storytelling across media, from classical oral epics and theatrical tragedies to novels and digital media. - Explore how historical shifts and technological advancements redefine narrative conventions. - Apply classic analytical frameworks from structuralism, psychoanalysis, and cultural theory to decode complex texts. - Examine the mechanics of modern transmedia storytelling, interactive branching paths, and digital worldbuilding. The course begins with core terminology and foundational definitions of narrative theory before guiding you chronologically through classical antiquity, the rise of the novel, cinematic storytelling, and contemporary digital narratives. Through written analysis and guided reading exercises, you will examine works by influential creators and theorists. This course is designed for absolute beginners, aspiring writers, literature enthusiasts, and game designers looking to understand the mechanics of story. No prior background in literary theory or analysis is required. Start your journey into the art and architecture of narrative today.