Humanities 120

Drama

Drama is a type of literature.

Its basic medium is spoken language.

(Medium: the material or technique an artist works with.)

Drama uses the resources of the theater to show human actions in such a way that we gain a deeper

understanding of the human experience.

Origins

of

Drama

Drama is such an ancient art form that its origins are

beyond human record.

It may have developed out of important rituals having to do with:

•Sewing and reaping crops

•Fertility rituals

•Burial rituals

So it has strong associations with the cycles of life, and the rhythms of nature

Subject Matter

of

Drama

The subject matter of drama are human events and actions

particularly as they convey some idea about the human condition.

Formal Elements

Of

Drama

•Diction

•Syntax

•Rhyme

•Rhythm

•Meter

•Metaphor

•Simile

•Symbol

•Action

•Character

•Setting

•Dialogue

Action:The dramatic narrative; the plot or ongoing

business of the characters

Action generally takes place in a narrative arc:

•Introduction

•Development

•Climax

•Conclusion

A simple narrative arc

Character:The way in which each individual in the

drama is portrayed

This includes the history, motivations, personality,

and decisions of the individuals.

Setting:The place(s) where the action occurs; created

through the manipulation of sets, lights, scenery, and references.

This can either be very realistically produced

Or barely hinted at.

Dialogue:The spoken words of actors playing

characters in the drama.

Most dialogue is spoken by one actor to another/others, but there is a form of

dialogue called soliloquy and one called monologue.

Soliloquy:

When a character delivers a brief speech to the audience;

Generally expresses a character’s inner thoughts;

We can generally assume we’re hearing character’s “true thoughts”;

Consists of relatively brief break in the action.

Monologue:

A character speaks at length;

Sometimes takes up entire act or play;

May be understood as character speaking to self, or directly to audience.

The Structure

of

Drama

Plots are structural principles that govern the shape of the narrative

Plots are often worked around archetypes: basic psychological patterns that people react to on a subconscious level.

Overthrow of father by son

Star-crossed love

Sacrifice of the individual for the good of the whole

The search for self identity

The great quest