Walter Fisher's Theory Of The Definition Of Narrative Paradigm

The book definition of Narrative Paradigm states that it is a hypothetical framework that views a narrative as the base of all human communication. Therefore in this case, the conceptual definition of the narrative paradigm is the notion that human interactions can be viewed as narratives (Magouyrk & Temporal, 2014). This theory of Narrative paradigm was proposed by Walter Fisher, a 20th century philosopher. Fisher was of the mind that life is experienced and understood by human beings as a string of continuous narratives; each one holding unique attributes in terms of its ending, middle, how it begins, characters and conflicts (The Narrative Paradigm, 2010).
The manner in which people justify or explain their actions, be it in the past or …show more content…
This therefore means that the narrative lens can accommodate all scenarios of communication, even those that may not fall under a narrative when defined by traditional literary requirements. The legitimacy of a story can be distinguished by individuals through what is termed as narrative rationality by Fisher. Rationality is based upon two aspects: fidelity and coherence (Millar & Heath, 2003). By definition, coherence is the extent to which a narrative makes sense structurally. Is the tale consistent with an adequate amount of detail, dependable characters, and free of any big astonishment? Judging coherence is a skill that is learnt and as one gains experience so does he improve upon the skill. Narrative coherence questions or tests the rationality of the story. Often, comparing a story with another that is of the same kind is a sure determinant of the narratives coherence. On the other hand, according to Fisher, the definitive test of a narrative’s coherence is whether or not the characters can be counted on to act in a manner that is reliable (Griffin, 2006). As a result, we rely on characters to be consistent throughout their actions and thought. However, if they are not consistent and conduct themselves uncharacteristically, we have to be suspicious (Griffin, 2006). Fidelity in a narrative questions the truthfulness of the story. As far as the narrative fidelity is concerned, if a …show more content…
It shows many relatable scenarios in life such as the case of children with abusive parents or even single parents, thereby impacting on their growth; in the movie, Jenny is such a case. In life, not many people are gifted or the brightest but each individual has an inborn attribute (talent) that can be singled out and magnified. An example is when Forrest finds out that he can be a good friend, play ping pong and run. What is notable throughout the movie is that Forrest was not among the brightest yet he made a lot of difference in the lives of those around him. Many are in the category of Forrest as being average or less and hence the audience can identify with his situation. The average individuals are also capable of extraordinary things and Forrest proves this when he gives Lieutenant Dan hope when he had already given up due to the loss of his legs. That incident is a source of hope that is very relatable to the audience. Ultimately, stories can be critiqued and evaluated by the rationality of the narrative to judge how persuasive they are. In conclusion, as a movie, Forrest Gump gives 100% in terms of persuasion and how it relates to the audience; furthermore it covers all pointers of the theory of narrative paradigm that defines narration as the basis of all human