summary

Karen Pastrano

CBIL 1080-1085, Writing about Drama

In order to write about drama we need to consider important elements. We must analyze the language of the stage directions, the setting, exposition, dialogue, plot, and other elements of drama since they serve to produce effects and meanings. Dramatic elements can enhance an imaginative re-creation of a performance. Meyer says that writing about a play “gauges our own interpretative response as an audience member; the only difference is that instead of applauding we are typing”. By writing we can explore and discover dimensions of the play that we may not be able to perceive by only watching the performance. In addition, we can elaborate an interesting thesis by rereading, taking notes, annotating the text, and writing down ideas. Moreover, while we read we must ask several questions in order to appreciate the play and consider important elements that reveal a play’s effects and meanings. Some important questions that Meyer points out are:

• Did you enjoy the play? What, specifically, pleased or displeased you about what was expressed and how it was expressed?

• What is the significance of the play’s title?

• What information do the stage directions provide about the characters, action, and setting?

• How is the exposition presented? What does it reveal?

• In what ways is the setting important? Would the play be altered significantly if the setting were changed?

• Are foreshadowings used to suggest what is to come? Are flashbacks used to dramatize what has already happened?

• What is the major conflict the protagonist faces? What complications constitute the rising action? Where is the climax? Is the conflict resolved?

• Are one or more subplots used to qualify or complicate ...

... middle of paper ...

.... She decides he will never change and she made the right choice to break up with him. In addition, in class I could see how changing the character’s actions, expressions, and setting changes the perspective of the play. In the first group Vernon was the passive one in the relationship whereas Lucy seemed to be the antagonist. We can interpret this by paying attention to the little details of the play such as tone of Vernon’s voice, the effort he put to set the table by using wine glasses instead of plastic ones, and how calm and understanding he was with Lucy. In the second group, Vernon was more aggressive than Lucy because he was upset and wanted her to eat the steak. Finally, the third group shows more of a confortable relationship since they were talking; they used plastic plates; they were sitting next to each other and both seem to get along with each other.