dramatic devices

Question 1

aside

Answer 1

remark / passage in a play that’s intended to be heard by the audience but unheard by the other characters

Question 2

aside effects

Answer 2

effects:
- allows characters to directly address audience
→ sharing inner thoughts / motivations
- creates a sense of intimacy
→ provides insight into character’s perspective
- engages audience

Question 3

dramatic irony

Answer 3

when audience knows s/t that characters don’t

Question 4

dramatic irony effects

Answer 4

effects:
- creates tension & anticipation as audience observes consequences of characters’ actions
→ often w/ a sense of foreboding
- adds humour / comedy

Question 5

foil

Answer 5

a character who contrasts w/ another character
→ typically the protagonist

Question 6

foil effects

Answer 6

effects:
- highlight / contrast certain qualities / traits
→ pts. of comparison: strengths, weaknesses, beliefs, actions, personalities motivations, choices
→ showcases characters’ growth & transformation
→ adds depth, & more nuanced & layered understanding of characters / plot
→ creates conflict & dramatic tension, propels narrative
- dramatic irony
→ when audience understands the contrast between 2 characters, while the characters themselves are unaware
→ builds tension & suspense as consequences loom

Question 7

soliloquy

Answer 7

monologue spoken by a character alone on stage revealing their inner thoughts & emotions

Question 8

soliloquy effects

Answer 8

effects:
- allows audience to gain insight into the character’s motivations, conflicts, & decisions
→ deepening audience’s understanding of the play’s themes
→ enhancing characterisation