(See related pages)
Chapter Two will discuss the playwright's role in the creation of the dramatic script.
After reading this chapter you should:
|
|
|
| 1. Understand that the function of the playwright or whoever creates a dramatic text is to design the structure of a play much like an architect plans the structure of a building. |
|
|
|
| 2. Understand that many critics have questioned the centrality of the playwright and the script and be aware of the different perspectives on the topic. |
|
|
|
| 3. Know the first five basic tasks of a playwright: 1) selecting the specific subject of the play |
|
|
|
| 4. Have a knowledge of the comparisons between writing for the stage and writing for film or television. |
|
|
|
| 5. Understand the essentials of dramatic structure including: plot, action, conflict, opposed forces, balance of forces |
|
|
|
| 6. Understand how a playwright "builds" the dramatic structure using the opening scene for exposition, introducing obstacles and complications, and building upon a series of crises and climaxes. |
|
|
|
| 7. Understand the differences between climactic and episodic plot structures. |
|
|
|
| 8. Have a knowledge of other dramatic structures including: ritual, pattern, serial, avant-garde, tableaux |
|
|
|
| 9. Understand the types of dramatic characters used by the playwright including: extraordinary characters, representative or quintessential characters, stock characters, characters with a dominant trait, minor characters, narrator or chorus, nonhuman characters |
|
|
|
| 10. Be familiar with the plot synopsis of Mother Courage |