Elements of Drama: Playwright Quiz and Flashcards

What is a playwright?

What is the origin of the word 'playwright'?

Who were the earliest surviving playwrights in Western literature?

What did Aristotle's Poetics analyze as the basis for tragedy?

What is neoclassical ideal?

What is the French scene?

What is the 'well-made play' format?

Do contemporary playwrights in the United States reach the same level of fame or cultural importance as others did in the past?

What is new play development?

A playwright or dramatist is a person who writes plays, and the word "playwright" comes from the Middle English word "pleye" and "wright." The first recorded use of the term "playwright" was in 1605, while the earliest surviving playwrights in Western literature are the Ancient Greeks. Aristotle's Poetics techniques analyzed the principle of action or praxis as the basis for tragedy, and he considered elements of drama such as plot, character, thought, diction, music, and spectacle. During the Italian Renaissance, neoclassical ideal emerged, which dwelled upon unities of action, place, and time. The French scene is a structural unit that is still useful to playwrights today, while the "well-made play" format relies on a series of coincidences that determined the action. Contemporary playwrights in the United States often do not reach the same level of fame or cultural importance as others did in the past. However, new play development has emerged as a phenomenon to showcase various festivals for new work or bring in playwrights for residencies. This has encouraged the partnerships of professional theatre companies and emerging playwrights.

Test your knowledge on the fascinating world of playwrights with this quiz! From the origins of the term "playwright" to the neoclassical ideals of the Italian Renaissance, this quiz will challenge you on the history and techniques of drama. Explore the French scene and "well-made play" format, and discover how contemporary playwrights are making their mark today. Whether you're a theatre buff or just looking to expand your knowledge, this quiz is sure to entertain and educate.