OVERVIEW

Narratology, the study of narrative structures and techniques, is undergoing profound transformations due to the rise of generative artificial intelligence. This course will first examine the foundations of narratology, from classical structures to emerging narrative forms, with the aim of integrating generative models into the invention of plots, characters, and dialogues. The course thus seeks to foster both critical and creative awareness in the use of AI, while maintaining the central role of interpretation and reception in the construction of original and meaningful narratives.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

This course aims to provide the knowledge necessary to understand traditional narrative structures, compare them with experimental narrative structures and, finally, develop the critical tools necessary to generate, interpret and evaluate narrative texts written with the aid of generative artificial intelligence tools.. 

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course aims to equip students with the following skills:

1. Analysis of narrative structures in order to understand and apply classical and contemporary narratological models.

2. Critical use of generative AI tools, to assess the opportunities and limitations offered by such tools in creative writing.

3. Development of original plots, adaptable to different media (text, image, video) and with different purposes (aesthetic, advertising, political and entertainment).

4. Integration of the use of AI tools into the creative process, balancing human intervention and automation in storytelling.

5. Reshaping of the concepts of authorship, originality, copyright, and responsibility in AI-assisted storytelling.

TEACHING METHODS

Teaching is based on lectures, working groups and on class exercises. Classes can be attended face-to-face or online.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Main topics:

- Definition of narratology and main theoretical approaches (Structuralism, Post-structuralism, School of Paris, linear vs. non-linear narration, exegesis and hermeneutics).

- Fable and plot; anachronies; ellipses, summaries and scenes; morphology of Propp's fairy tale.

- Extradiegetic, intradiegetic, metadiegetic narrator; zero, internal and external focalization; differences between empirical author and implicit author.

- Character system; direct, indirect and implicit characterization. The interaction between characters and their role in narrative dynamics.

- Theory of the hero's journey (Campbell) and actantial model (Greimas); polyphony, parallel editing, fragmented narration.

- Intermedial, cross-media and interactive narration; adaptations; digital storytelling (social media, virtual reality, augmented reality)

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Readings and materials will be provided on the AulaWeb portal.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

SAMUELE FIORAVANTI (President)

NICOLA FERRARI

ILARIA TORRE (President Substitute)

LESSONS

LESSONS START

LESSONS START

Second semester

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam includes:

- written assessment, 
- development and discussion of a project

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The written assessment is designed to assess whether the student has acquired knowledge about semantic annotation and the methodologies for its use.
The project is aimed at assessing whether the student has acquired skills in the use of methodologies and technologies in application cases in the artistic and cultural field.