Drama

Definition of Drama

Drama is a mode of fictional representation through dialogue and performance. It is one of the literary genres, which is an imitation of some action. Drama is also a type of play written for theater, television, radio, and film. (2022)

It contains conflict of characters, particularly the ones who perform in front of an audience on the stage. The person who writes drama for stage directions is known as a “dramatist” or “playwright.” (2022)

Common genres of Drama

1.     Tragedy: this is the oldest form of drama that means to present tragic emotions on the stage. (2022)

Example: William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” follows the tragic journey of Macbeth’s ambition leading to his ultimate downfall and demise. (English Literature, 2023)

2.     Tragicomedy (Dramedy): Tragicomedy combines elements of tragedy and comedy, often blending serious themes with humorous moments. These plays explore the complexities of life, encompassing both light and dark aspects. (English Literature, 2023)

Example: Tom Stoppard’s “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead” reimagines the story of “Hamlet” from the perspective of two minor characters, balancing existential reflections with comedic exchanges. (English Literature, 2023)

3.     Comedy: probably the first drama subgenre, comedy traditionally features lower-class characters, emphasizes silly or bawdy themes, and often ends in marriage. (Libretexts, 2022)

Example: Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” is a classic comedy that employs wit and satire to explore themes of social conventions and identity. (English Literature, 2023)

4.     Historical Drama: recreates a historically significant event. May include elements of comedy, tragedy, or romance. (Libretexts, 2022)

Example: Friedrich Schiller’s “Mary Stuart” dramatizes the conflict between Mary, Queen of Scots, and Queen Elizabeth I, exploring power dynamics and personal struggles. (English Literature, 2023)

References

Drama - examples and definition of drama. Literary Devices. (2022, January 3). https://literarydevices.net/drama/?utm_content=cmp-true

English Literature. (2023, August 17). What is drama? what is drama in literature? features, types & details students must know. https://englishliterature.education/articles/guides/what-is-drama-what-is-drama-in-literature-features-types-details-students-must-know/

Libretexts. (2022, October 6). 8.1: What is drama?. Humanities LibreTexts. https://human.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Literature_and_Literacy/Writing_and_Critical_Thinking_Through_Literature_(Ringo_and_Kashyap)/08%3A_About_Drama/8.01%3A_What_is_Drama

Author of the page: Malak Harezová