Narrative as a Cognitive and Social Tool: A Literature Review

Abstract

This article presents a literature review on narrative, exploring its conceptualization, functions, and applications across diverse contexts. Through an analysis of literature published in Spanish and English over the past ten years, this review synthesizes findings from major narrative theories, ranging from classical narratology to post-structuralist and cognitive approaches. The main findings reveal that narrative fulfills key social, psychological, and epistemological functions, acting as a cornerstone for community cohesion, the construction of personal identity, and the organization of knowledge. Additionally, the article discusses the evolution of narrative in digital and transmedia environments, highlighting its adaptability and ongoing relevance in contemporary communication. The study concludes that narrative is a dynamic field that requires greater theoretical integration and deeper exploration of its manifestations in the digital era, with this review serving as a roadmap for future research.