Drama Plot Structures: Romance and Westerns
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary goal of the hero in The Romance pattern?

  • To gain wealth and status through adventure
  • To overcome obstacles and restore harmony to society (correct)
  • To seek personal glory without societal implications
  • To engage in a romantic relationship with another character

    • How did the introduction of the printing press influence the stories of knightly quests?

  • It eliminated the need for professional bards.
  • It resulted in the decline of the Romance genre.
  • It transformed them into a new literary form called the novel. (correct)
  • It made these stories accessible only to the elite.

    • What aspect of character is commonly embodied by the hero in many dramatic genres?

  • An alignment with the forces of chaos and violence
  • A duality between the wilderness and civilization (correct)
  • A being who lacks depth and complexity
  • A focus on introspection and personal dilemmas

    • In what manner do westerns often reflect the themes of The Romance pattern?

    <p>By focusing on social unrest and the hero's quest for justice</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a defining relationship often found in the classical western genre?

    <p>A balance between the lawless wilderness and the constrained civilization</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primary themes represent the Western hero's journey in the genre according to the provided description?

    <p>The confrontation with nature and the affirmation of social order.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best describes the portrayal of women in Western films as illustrated in the content?

    <p>Women typically embody the values of family and community, but are secondary figures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant conflict in Western films according to the content?

    <p>The conflict between man and the harshness of nature.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do the Western films described illustrate the concept of Americana?

    <p>By depicting heroes who are simple and independent, reflecting American values.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What narrative device is commonly found in Western serials as described in the text?

    <p>The cliffhanger ending that leaves heroes in peril for the next episode.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What underlying theme does the western genre primarily explore?

    <p>The clash between culture and nature</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which characteristic is commonly associated with the heroes of classic western films?

    <p>Their rejection of stability and home</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What common outcome is typically seen at the end of traditional western films?

    <p>The lawless town is restored to order</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of the western genre often leads to unintentional humor in films?

    <p>The excessive use of iconic objects and costumes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does the western genre reflect on the American myth?

    <p>Through the lens of colonialism and the consequences on Native Americans</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the gun in westerns?

    <p>It represents power and individual style</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which actor embodied the complex mix of reality and fiction within western films?

    <p>Marion Morrison</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What recurring element signifies the transition from wilderness to civilization in westerns?

    <p>The construction of railroads</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do costumes play a role in identifying characters within western films?

    <p>They indicate social and narrative functions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What critical perspective is often overlooked by critics regarding the cowboy mentality?

    <p>It represents a cherished ideal of self-reliance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Drama Plot Structure

    • The Romance Plot pattern is a popular plot structure used in many stories and films and is a variation of "The Hero Quest" which has appeared in stories throughout history
    • The Romance Plot follows a story structure where a hero or heroine saves a society from danger
    • The hero has special skills and solves problems through trials and tribulations, culminating in a major battle against evil forces and restoring harmony to society
    • The Romance Plot pattern is illustrated in films such as Star Wars and Lord of the Rings

    Westerns

    • Westerns are rooted in American history and often feature a hero who strives to balance freedom and civilization
    • Westerns often feature iconic visuals and recurring symbols
    • Westerns often portray the conflict between man and nature
    • The Western hero is often portrayed as independent, straight forward, and self-sufficient, preferring the wilderness to the constraints of civilization
    • The Western hero is an individual who embodies American values such as self-reliance and justice
    • The Western genre explores a nostalgic perspective of a romanticized past and a desire to control the environment
    • Western films often feature a darker side that explores themes of violence and self-destruction
    • The Western hero is often portrayed as an outcast and ultimately remains alone, even after saving a town

    War Films

    • War Films suspend the morality of civilization, and depict the harsh realities of war, showcasing a world where rules are often broken
    • In War Films, women are often portrayed as a destabilizing influence, distracting men from their mission and tempting them to act against their best interests
    • The individual soldier's sacrifice for the good of the group is a core theme in War Films
    • War Films are often used to educate viewers about the complexities of war and the social and personal consequences of conflict
    • War Films often utilize homoerotic themes, showcasing bonds formed between men who experience similar tragedies and challenges
    • War Films often portray stereotypical representations of an ideal military unit: soldiers from different backgrounds, working together for a common goal
    • War Films often serve as propaganda to promote specific agendas and perspectives related to war
    • War Films often portray a stereotypical portrayal of a soldier, exhibiting bravery and fighting for a just cause
    • War Films typically portray the enemy as dehumanized and monstrous, contributing to the narrative of a righteous war
    • War Films explore difficulties faced by soldiers returning from war and struggling to reintegrate into society
    • War Films often incorporate elements of other genres, such as comedy, romance, and dark comedy to reflect the era of the film and the realities of war

    War Film Genre

    • The war genre has a rich history in entertainment, dating back to literature and continuing into motion pictures.
    • Early war films often served to promote patriotism, recruit military personnel, and solidify support for wars.
    • Films like The Steel Helmet (1951) tackled complex social issues alongside war themes, like racial inequality.
    • WW I and WW II films typically showcased American heroism, vilified enemies, and emphasized national unity.
    • The Vietnam War brought about a shift in war film depictions, moving away from glorification and towards critical analysis.
    • The Green Berets (1968) was a rare example of a pro-war Vietnam film, failing to resonate with audiences.
    • Many Vietnam War films emerged a decade after the conflict, often portraying the war's devastating impact and critiques of American involvement.
    • Films like Apocalypse Now (1979) and The Deer Hunter (1978) exemplified this critical approach.
    • More recent war films have depicted individual corruption within the military rather than condemning the institution itself.
    • Examples of this include films promoting military recruitment, such as Top Gun (1986) and American Sniper (2014).
    • The use of actual war footage alongside fictional recreations blurs the lines between documentary and fiction, highlighting the intensity of combat depictions.

    Science Fiction Genre

    • Science fiction films explore present, future, or alternative past settings.
    • Key elements include:
      • Intriguing spectacle through special effects and production design.
      • Embattled protagonists facing challenges, often alongside small teams.
      • Blending of human and extraterrestrial cultures.
      • Speculative science-based depictions of phenomena like time travel.
      • Exploration of political, social, or philosophical themes.
      • The coexistence of real and supernatural worlds.
      • Portrayal of knowledge as potentially dangerous or disruptive.
      • Often presenting a bleak outlook on the future.
      • Reflecting society's anxieties about technology and environmental change.

    Horror Genre

    • Horror films primarily evoke fear and suspense.
    • Common traits:
      • The audience is aware of the villain's identity, even if the film's characters are not.
      • Unexpected twists and shock elements are present.
      • False endings contribute to suspense.
      • Villains often defy death and possess superhuman strength.
      • Films often incorporate vulgar language, nudity, and morally ambiguous themes.
      • Soundtracks play a crucial role in building tension and delivering those shock moments.
      • Horror aims to evoke dread and alarm in viewers.
      • They tap into our deepest fears, such as nightmares, vulnerability, alienation, and the unknown.
      • While terrifying, they also aim to entertain and engage viewers.
      • Horror films focus on the darker aspects of life and explore our most primal fears.

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    Description

    Explore the intricacies of two popular drama plot structures: the Romance Plot and the Western. Learn how the hero's journey is depicted in these narratives, with themes of courage, freedom, and the clash between civilization and nature. Discover classic examples like Star Wars and Western heroes who embody independence.

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