Definition and major components of tragedy, comedy, one- act play, farce, melodrama
This lesson provides a comprehensive understanding of the major forms of drama such as definition and major components of tragedy, comedy, one- act play, farce, melodrama, equipping you with the analytical tools to identify their components in literary works.
1. Tragedy
Definition of Tragedy:
A tragedy is a dramatic form that depicts the downfall of a noble protagonist due to a flaw or a force beyond their control, evoking pity and fear. Aristotle, in Poetics, outlined its key features, emphasising catharsis—an emotional purging for the audience. (Read in Detail)
Major Components of Tragedy:
- Plot: A cohesive structure with a beginning, middle, and end. It often follows a chain of cause and effect (e.g., Oedipus Rex by Sophocles).
- Character: The protagonist is often heroic but flawed, such as Hamlet in Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
- Theme: Universal ideas like fate, ambition, or morality (Macbeth explores ambition and its consequences).
- Diction: Elevated and poetic language (Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe showcases lyrical soliloquies).
- Spectacle: Dramatic staging, costumes, and effects, such as the ghost scenes in Hamlet.
- Catharsis: Emotional cleansing through pity and fear.
Examples:
- Greek: Antigone by Sophocles.
- Elizabethan: King Lear by Shakespeare.
- Modern: Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller.
2. Comedy
Definition of Comedy:
Comedy is a form of drama that seeks to entertain and amuse by highlighting human follies, social norms, or misunderstandings. It often concludes with a happy resolution. (Read More)
Major Components of Comedy:
- Plot: Light-hearted conflicts, often involving misunderstandings (Much Ado About Nothing by Shakespeare).
- Characters: Relatable individuals with exaggerated quirks (e.g., Malvolio in Twelfth Night).
- Language: Witty dialogues, puns, and repartees (The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde).
- Themes: Satirical commentary on society, love, or class distinctions (A Midsummer Night’s Dream explores love’s irrationality).
Examples:
- Classical: The Clouds by Aristophanes.
- Elizabethan: As You Like It by Shakespeare.
- Modern: Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw.
3. One-Act Play
Definition of One-Act Play:
A one-act play is a short, concise form of drama that typically presents a single incident or theme, maintaining unity of time, place, and action.
Major Components of One-Act Play:
- Structure: A single act, often with one or two scenes (The Bear by Anton Chekhov).
- Focus: A central conflict or message without subplots.
- Characters: Limited characters to maintain focus (Riders to the Sea by J.M. Synge).
- Setting: Minimalist staging and settings to suit the brevity of the form.
Examples:
- The Proposal by Anton Chekhov: A humorous portrayal of a marriage proposal gone awry.
- Riders to the Sea by J.M. Synge: A poignant depiction of loss and resilience.
4. Farce
Definition of Farce:
A farce is a comedic genre known for its absurd situations, exaggerated characters, and improbable events, aimed at provoking hearty laughter. (Read more)
Major Components of Farce:
- Plot: Fast-paced, often involving mistaken identities or physical comedy (The Comedy of Errors by Shakespeare).
- Characters: Over-the-top, caricatured individuals (The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde).
- Situational Humour: Ridiculous scenarios, such as secret identities or dramatic irony.
Examples:
- Classical: Lysistrata by Aristophanes.
- Victorian: The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde.
- Modern: Noises Off by Michael Frayn.
5. Melodrama
Definition of Melodrama:
Melodrama is a theatrical form that uses heightened emotions and moral polarities to engage the audience. It often involves sensational plots with clear distinctions between good and evil. (Read More)
Major Components of Melodrama:
- Plot: Emotionally charged narratives focusing on moral conflicts (The Lady of Lyons by Edward Bulwer-Lytton).
- Characters: Stereotypical heroes, heroines, and villains (e.g., the virtuous Oliver in Oliver Twist by Dickens).
- Themes: Justice, love, or sacrifice.
- Music and Spectacle: Use of background music and dramatic staging to heighten emotions.
Examples:
- Classical: A Tale of Mystery by Thomas Holcroft.
- Victorian: East Lynne by Mrs. Henry Wood.
- Modern: Soap operas and films often borrow melodramatic elements.