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Intro and Types of Drama

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Intro and Types of Drama

Uploaded by

chadilsial
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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➢ what is drama?

in literature, the word drama defines a genre, or style of


writing. drama is a play that can be performed for theatre, radio, or even
television. these plays are usually written out as a script, or a written
version of a play that is read by the actors but not the audience. drama,
is meant to be performed on a stage in front of an audience at the
theatre. so, drama refers to the script, while the word theatre is the
performance of the script.

etymologically, the word drama comes from the greek word “draō” which means
“to do/ to act”.

➢ origin of drama:
we can trace drama straight back to ancient greece, where western drama
originated. the cultural city of athens mainly produced three types of drama–
tragedy, comedy and satyr play. the exact origin of drama, or plays is obscure,
as is the custom for so many cultural traditions.

➢ Different types of literary drama

drama in literature refers to the performance of written dialogue and


stage action. it’s a literary genre that allows actors to act out a writer’s
words directly to an audience. but there’s more than one type of literary
genre – and chances are, you’ve seen examples of them all. here are
some explanations and examples of different types of drama in
literature.

i. Tragedy:

tragedy is a genre that explores the downfall of a protagonist due to


tragic flaws, external circumstances, or a combination of both. tragedies
evoke emotions such as pity and fear and often end in catastrophe or
death for the central character.
ii. comedy:

comedy is characterised by humour, wit, and lightheartedness. it often


involves misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and humorous
situations. comedies aim to entertain and uplift the audience.

iii. Tragicomedy (dramedy):

tragicomedy combines elements of tragedy and comedy, often blending


serious themes with humorous moments. these plays explore the
complexities of life, encompassing both light and dark aspects.

iv. Historical drama:

historical dramas are set in a specific historical period and often involve
real historical figures and events. they provide insight into the past while
addressing universal themes.

v. Musical drama:

musical dramas combine theatrical performance with music, including


songs and often dance routines. they can cover a wide range of themes
and emotions, utilizing music to enhance storytelling.

vi. Absurdist drama:

absurdist dramas challenge traditional narrative structures and explore


the absurdity of human existence. they often feature illogical situations,
disjointed dialogue, and existential themes.

vii. Political drama:

political dramas centre around political conflicts, ideologies, and power


struggles. they can focus on individuals, groups, or entire societies
dealing with political issues.
viii. Melodrama:

melodramas emphasize heightened emotions and moral contrasts. they


often feature clearly defined heroes and villains, and their plots revolve
around intense emotional situations.

➢ what are the components of a drama?

I. characters:

characters are the heart of any dramatic work. they drive the plot, convey
themes, and engage the audience emotionally. characters can be
protagonists, antagonists, foils, or supporting roles. each character has
distinct traits, motivations, and relationships that shape their
interactions and influence the story’s development.

II. plot:

the plot is the sequence of events that constitute the storyline. it includes
the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. the
plot structure creates tension and intrigue, guiding the audience through
the narrative journey

III. conflict:

conflict is the driving force behind the drama. it can be internal (within a
character’s mind) or external (between characters or circumstances).
conflict propels the story forward and illuminates the characters’
struggles and growth. conflict makes a drama engaging, reflective and
consuming. a drama without conflict may seldom exist.
IV. Dialogue:

dialogue is the spoken communication between characters. it reveals


their personalities, intentions, emotions, and relationships. effective
dialogue captures the essence of the characters and advances the plot.

V. Setting:

the setting establishes the time, place, and environment in which the
drama unfolds. it influences the mood, atmosphere, and context of the
story.

VI. Theme:

themes are the underlying ideas or messages conveyed through the


drama. they address universal truths, societal issues, and philosophical
concepts. themes enrich the narrative and provoke thought.

VII. Symbolism:

symbolism involves the use of objects, actions, or characters to


represent abstract ideas or concepts. symbolic elements add depth and
layers of meaning to the drama

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