Unnatural Narratology: Developments and Perspectives

This article seeks to outline some of the most significant innovations of the new and thriving paradigm of unnatural narratology. At the most basic level, the research program proposed by unnatural narrative theorists involves the systematic study of the various ways in which fictional narratives deviate from 'natural' cognitive frames, i.e. our real-world understanding of time, space, and other human beings. Unnatural narratologists also deal with the implications or potential functions of such deviations. In a first step, this essay presents one definition of the term 'unnatural.' It then outlines innovative developments that concern the creation of cognitive frames which are based on blends that transcend real-world possibilities; the isolation of cognitive mechanisms and the development of reading strategies to make sense of the unnatural; and, finally, a fresh perspective on literary history. The article will end by presenting a list of open questions and suggestions for future research within the field.