Introduction to Drama and Plot Structure

The conversation between characters in a play.

Instructions for actors, directors, and stage crew.

Reading a play is different than reading a novel.

A drama contains the basic elements of fiction, such as plot and characters.

In a play, the setting and characters are revealed primarily through dialogue and stage directions.

The introduction of a story that provides background information about the characters, setting, and main problem.

The part of the story where tension and suspense build, and the problem becomes more complex.

The event that sets the main character(s) on their journey, often occurring near the end of the rising action.

The struggle between two or more characters.

The struggle between a character and their own inner thoughts and feelings.

A visual representation that breaks down the structure of a story into key parts, making it easier to analyze and understand.

The process of examining the plot of a story using a plot diagram to understand its structure, themes, and other elements.

The moment of highest tension or conflict in the story, where things change irrevocably.

The final part of the story, where loose ends are tied up and the story ends.

The events that follow the climax, leading to the story's conclusion.

The most exciting part of a story

The events that happen after the climax

Using words sparingly and making each line impactful.

Each line should reveal something about the play's theme, the central event, or the main character.

Dialogue should be brief and full of meaning.

Dialogue that doesn't move the plot forward should be eliminated.

Dialogue should be crafted to accurately represent the character's personality.

The root of the word "drama" comes from the Greek word "Dran", which means "to do" or "to act". It's important to understand that these actions form the foundation upon which drama is built.

Drama, as an art form, is essentially about taking action. It's not just about talking or standing still - it's about DOING things, bringing characters and stories to life through physical movement and expression.

The actions in drama don't happen in a vacuum. They're driven by characters, their motivations, and their interactions with each other. These actions create the conflict, tension, and ultimately, the story.

The word "drama" itself hints at the dynamic nature of the art form. It's alive, it's moving, it's about doing and reacting.

While the word "drama" might make you think of serious or intense pieces, it can also be light and humorous! It's a versatile art form that covers a spectrum of emotions and themes.

The central idea or message that the playwright wants to convey to the audience.

All elements of the play (characters, plot, dialogue, etc.) should work together to support and reveal the main theme.

The play should encourage the audience to think about the theme and its significance.

The playwright must have a clear understanding of the theme before writing the play.

The theme should be relevant and engaging for the intended audience.

In one-act plays, characters are developed in a limited way. The main hero needs focused attention, while the antagonist helps create conflict. Other characters can be added but should be developed concisely.

The main character in a story, usually the one facing a challenge or quest.

The character who opposes or creates conflict for the hero, making the story more engaging.

Characters in a story who help move the plot forward but might not have major roles. They can provide support, conflict, or information.

In one-act plays, supporting characters are often used to develop the main characters and move the story forward quickly and effectively.

The central idea or message conveyed in a play. It can be about love, loss, conflict, or any other universal theme.

The sequence of events in a play. It usually follows a structure with a beginning, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

The people involved in a play. They can be complex or simple, and their actions drive the plot.

A one-act play has only one important event that drives the story forward.

The climax of a one-act play is the moment where the hero achieves their goal or faces their ultimate challenge.

The audience must use clues and actions to understand what is happening in a one-act play, rather than being told directly.

One-act plays often condense actions and events, leaving room for the audience to interpret and imagine.

The setting, characters, and motivations in a one-act play are often implied or revealed through dialogue and actions.