ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the flashback concept from different angles. First, the meaning of the term and its origin are exposed (Turim, 1989). Particular attention is paid to the narratological concept of analepsis as defined by Genette (1972), since the flashback is its cinematic equivalent. Then the classical distinction between fabula and syuzhet and between story and discourse is discussed as well as the specific differentiation in film between story time and narration time as proposed by Bordwell (1995 [1985]), who builds upon Genette’s (1972) description of the temporal relations established between story and discourse. Furthermore, the three categories of those temporal relations (order, duration, and frequency) and the narrative possibilities they afford are presented. These and other typological distinctions, such as the triad recounting, enactment, and enacted recounting (Chatman, 1978; Bordwell, 1995 [1985]), are set out in order to clarify and delimit the concept of flashback and reveal all its possible narrative manifestations. Finally, the evolution of flashbacks throughout film history is briefly outlined as well as the varied theoretical approaches that have been adopted for the study of the device.
Bordwell, D. (1995). Narration in the fiction film. London: Routledge. (Original work published 1985).
Chatman, S. (1978). Story and discourse. Ithaca: Cornell University Press.
Genette, G. (1972). Figures III. Paris: ditions du Seuil.
Turim, M. (1989). Flashbacks in film: Memory and history. New York: Routledge.
