Cross-Cultural Narratology: A Comparative Study of Storytelling Techniques in Eastern and Western Literature

Abstract

This research paper presents a comprehensive comparative study of narratology in eastern and western literature, focusing on the distinct narrative structures, character development, narrative perspectives, and thematic elements that define storytelling in these diverse cultural spheres. Through a systematic analysis of selected literary works from both eastern and western traditions, the study reveals the profound influence of cultural contexts on narrative techniques. Key findings demonstrate that while western narratives often exhibit a linear structure emphasizing individualism and psychological exploration, eastern narratives display a preference for cyclical or non-linear structures, highlighting collective experiences and societal roles. The paper synthesizes these findings to discuss the broader implications of cultural influences on narrative forms. By juxtaposing classical literature, the research explains the variations in character development, narrative perspective, and thematic focus between eastern and western literature. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of understanding these cross-cultural narrative techniques, suggesting avenues for future research in comparative narratology, especially in the context of contemporary global literature and translation studies.