Melodrama Flashcards
Where does the word melodrama come from?
Greek word “Melos” meaning song of music
And the French word “dramie” meaning drama
What are three characteristics of a melodrama
Extravagant actions, dramatic emotions and an unrealistic plot
Who originally went to the theatre and why did that change?
Theatre seen as a playground for the wealthy as they understood and were educated about the plays. The working class started to go to the theatre for an effortless cheap form of entertainment.
What makes a melodrama?
Simple storylines, stereotyped characters that were easy to identify and used placards. Usually a damsel in distress, evil villain and a hero
Why was the dialogue simple?
So that they didn’t have to hire skilled actors rather normal ones who don’t need to be extraordinary actors
What was the purpose of melodramas?
They deal with moral issues and play on the audiences emotions
What are the 5 things a melodrama includes
Events that throw the hero and villain together and the hero triumphs
False accusations
Moral ending (good wins)
Violence and supernatural horrors
Tear jerking scenes
Major elements
Provocation - what provokes evil
Pangs - pain if good characters
Penalty - villain gets punished
What is the music like?
The acting must link to the music. It is continuous music. Each character has different musical genres eg, heroine = soft music
What are the characters like?
They are stereotyped characters with stereotyped names and costumes
What are the actors like?
Don’t have to be skilled. Nor formal training. Said the lines with as much drama as possible. Often play one character with little emotion for a long time.
What was the setting like?
Drew the audience in and away from the actors. Used latest lighting techniques. Realistic effects. Stage braces helped with freestanding props. Richard Wagner improved amphitheatres so everyone had a full view. Darkened orchestra to minimise distractions
How is dialogue transmitted in a silent film
Through mime, gestures and placards
Titles edited in to clarify the situations
Is there music in silent films
Yes. Theatres in small towns had a pianist and in the big towns had an orchestra
What is the acting style of silent films
Lots of body language and facial expressions so that the audience can understand the actors feelings
