Narrative Journalism: Uses and Misuses of Storytelling in News Reporting

This thesis explores the evolution, practice, and ethical problems of narrative journalism, a genre that combines literary storytelling techniques with factual reporting. Through a detailed analysis of narrative journalism’s history, from New Journalism to contemporary digital forms, the study explores how narrative structures, and emotional engagement have transformed news reporting and audience experience. The thesis explores the limits between factual and narrative storytelling, highlighting the ethical problems that arise when journalistic norms of truthfulness, objectivity, and transparency intersect with the narrative. Special attention is given to the impact of digital media, social platforms, which have amplified both the impact and the risks of narrative journalism, including the spread of misinformation and propaganda. The thesis highlights how narrative strategies may both enhance public awareness and threaten journalistic integrity when used improperly by comparing traditional and online journalism and examining case studies from various cultural contexts. In order to guarantee that storytelling serves the public interest without sacrificing truth or trust, the study emphasizes the significance of preserving ethical norms in narrative journalism. Finally, the thesis includes a case study on the Moldovan political narratives, which aims at analyzing the role of the media and journalism in the country and how it is shaped by politics and external actors.