Drama Terms Flashcards
intentional lead up to nothing
Anticlimax
a central character in a story, movie, or drama who lacks conventional heroic attributes, such as idealism, courage, and morality. Often motivated by self-interest.
Antihero
comment made by a character (usually in a play) that is only intended for the audience or just another character. Creates dramatic irony.
Aside
post WWII designation for particular plays where normal conventions and dramatic structure are ignored or modified. Existentialism. No clear plot.
Theatre of the Absurd
discovery that produces a change from ignorance to knowledge
Character Recognition
relief from emotional tension
Comic relief
when a seemingly unsolvable problem in a story is suddenly and/or abruptly resolved by an unexpected and unlikely occurrence. “God from the machine”
Deus Ex Machina
character who changes throughout the story and is different at the end. (Ex: Anakin)
Dynamic Character
character with lack of depth and dimension. Only one or two features (ex: Evil Stepmother)
Flat Character
multi-dimensional character
Round Character
character who doesn’t undergo changes
Static Character
funny play. Typically have a buffoon type character who gets into crazy scenarios.
Farce
character whose purpose is to draw comparisons to another character (usually the protagonist). Often highlights weaknesses. Characters don’t need to oppose each other.
Foil
dropped into the middle of a story
In Media Res
one person speaking; usually a long, tedious speech
Monologue
