Analytic Terms Drama

Question 1

Catharsis

Answer 1

An emotional release engendered by an intense experience.

Question 2

Dramatis personae

Answer 2

Latin term for the list of characters in a play.

Question 3

Hamartia

Answer 3

A fatal moral flaw in a protagonist of a tragedy.

Question 4

Hubris

Answer 4

Now usually used to designate overweening pride in a protagonist of a tragedy.

Question 5

Alienation effect

Answer 5

The use of devices that disrupt the illusion of realistic theatre, such as the cast speaking or singing directly to the audience, or holding up signs or slogans.

Question 6

Aside

Answer 6

A remark to the audience which other characters on stage do not hear. In effect a device used to make a character’s inner feelings evident.

Question 7

Exunt

Answer 7

Used to indicate several people leave the stage.

Question 8

Exit

Answer 8

Used to indicate one person leaves the stage.

Question 9

Monologue

Answer 9

A play that consists of the speech of one character with no other cast. Alan Bennett has written many monologues interpreted bu famous actors such as ‘A Cream Cracker Under the Settee’ for Thora Hird.

Question 10

Soliloquy

Answer 10

A solo speech by a character, usually taking place when s/he is alone on stage. Like an aside, it is a way of allowing character’s thoughts to be overheard.

Question 11

Verfremdungsffekt

Answer 11

Original German term for ‘alienation effect’.