Media studies – TV
Narrative

EDUQUAS

Can you identify the various stages of the narrative in Series 1 of The Returned?


TODOROVIAN STRUCTURE -

EQUILIBRIUM

The bereaved have adjusted (or not) to the deaths of their loved ones.

DISRUPTION

The dead return – e.g. Camille to Léna, Jérôme and Claire; Mme Costa to M Costa; Simon to Adèle.; Victor to Julie.

RECOGNITION

The reservoir waters drop; the returned begin to decay; the returned appear en masse.

RESOLUTION

Relationships shift; the living cannot leave; the exchange at the shelter. Claire and Julie join the returned.

EQUILIBRIUM

The siege; the shootout; the returned and the police disappear; the town floods. However, the narrative is not fully resolved at the end of Series 1 as many questions remain.