Dramatic Elements Definitions Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What does 'Contrast' refer to in dramatic elements?

A part of drama creating chaos

Where things appear in discord to create change or interest (correct)

Where things appear in harmony to create interest

A technique used only in literature

What is 'Conflict' in drama?

An essential part of drama which creates chaos and disharmony in a play

What occurs at the 'Climax' of a performance?

The highest peak of a performance, usually happening at the end

What is a 'Symbol' in the context of drama?

Where a form implies more than the literal meaning Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Space' refer to in a performance?

The use of the stage and its effective utilization relative to the audience's understanding Signup and view all the answers

How is 'Sound' utilized in drama?

Created to establish mood produced by actors rather than technology Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of 'Tension' in a performance?

Leads to crisis or climax and develops suspense Signup and view all the answers

What role does 'Timing' play in drama?

Control of movements and gestures in accord with time to create contrast Signup and view all the answers

What is 'Focus' in a dramatic performance?

Channelling energies to achieve the objectives of a character Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Mood' represent in a performance?

The feeling of a performance manipulated through stagecraft, lighting, and movement Signup and view all the answers

Why is 'Language' important in drama?

It communicates the story to the audience, expressed verbally or non-verbally Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Rhythm' refer to in a dramatic context?

A pattern alternating in a scene to create dramatic effect Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Dramatic Elements

Contrast: Utilizes opposing elements to evoke change or interest within the narrative. Enhances dynamics within the performance.
Conflict: A foundational element of drama, introducing chaos and discord that drives the plot forward and develops character relationships.
Climax: Represents the peak moment of tension and emotion in a performance, typically occurring towards the end.
Symbol: Employs objects or characters to convey deeper meanings, enriching the narrative by hinting at themes beyond the literal interpretation.
Space: Involves the strategic use of the stage to enhance storytelling, affecting how the audience perceives the action and relationships on stage.
Sound: Contributes to the overall atmosphere and emotional tone of a performance, generated by actors, rather than relying solely on technological effects.
Tension: Reflects the suspenseful buildup in a narrative; creates expectation for future developments, often linked to conflict and the lead-up to the climax.
Timing: Involves the rhythmic coordination of movements and gestures, playing a critical role in establishing pace and enhancing dramatic contrasts.
Focus: Central to a performer’s portrayal, requiring concentration and engagement to effectively deliver the character’s objectives and emotions.
Mood: Defines the emotional tone of the performance, shaped through stagecraft elements like lighting, movement, and actor interactions.
Language: Essential for storytelling, using both verbal and non-verbal communication techniques to convey the narrative and character intentions.
Rhythm: Characterizes the flow and tempo of the performance, incorporating patterns in actions and dialogue to create dramatic impact.

Description

Test your knowledge of key dramatic elements with this set of flashcards. Each card defines a crucial term such as contrast, conflict, climax, and symbol, essential for understanding drama. Perfect for drama students or anyone interested in the theatrical arts.