S1 E8- "La Gran Mentira"
S2 E8- "Exit El Patron"
S3 E8- "Convivir"
Patterns in Narrative Structure
Analyzing the 8th episode of each season of the Netflix original series "Narcos", revealed similar patterns in narrative structure between each episode. Using the Propp labels of sequence of events, we identified many things about the the narrative events in the series and how frequently they appear through each season and episode. Absentation is a sequence of event that seems to drive a lot of the narrative in the series. In season 1 episode 8, the kidnapping if Diana Turbay, a recognized journalist, put forth the motion and narrative of the episode which was to get the government to accept Escobar's surrender deal and terms. In season 3 episode 8, we see a similar event when the Cali Cartel kidnaps Christina Jurado, the wife of Narcos worker Francisco Jurado, and gives her over to a militia, it sets forth the narrative of her rescue by the DEA.
Some form of complicity is also found in the series. In season 1 episode 8, Pablo seems to willingly try to comply and work with the government, in his own way. As long as the government accepts his terms and deal, he will not kill any of the hostages. In season 2, episode we also see compliance, this time by force, from La Quica, one of Escobars trusted workers. The DEA forces him to give important information regarding Escobar. Although it is in a violent matter, we still see compliance from the enemy. Non-binary oppositions that were also identified and were repeated throughout the series. One popular opposition was Narcos vs. DEA. In S2 E8, the DEA is on a manhunt to capture Escobar and is at constant battle with him. Escobar at this point, is trying to outrun the DEA and not get captured. In S3 E8, the DEA also attempted to capture Miguel Hernandez, leader of the Cali Cartel but failed, creating this continuing battle of Narcos vs. DEA.
The sequence of events and non-binary oppositions make up the narrative structure and patterns of the series. The show reuses narrative patterns to develop the different narratives in each episode. Absentation, a missing person, and complicity are examples of two narrative events that are repeated through each season. Non-binary oppositions are also reused such as Narcos vs DEA. Narcos is a show that comes off as complicated from a narrative point of view, because the timeline, at times, go's out of order. However, we still find some very common narrative patterns in it such as the Propp lables. It is still a show that follows a pretty basic narrative structure.