Theatrical Terms and Concepts

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Aside

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A remark or passage in a play that is intended to be heard by the audience but unheard by the other characters in the play.

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Tragedy

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A dramatic play that tells the story of a character who meets an untimely and unhappy death or downfall, often because of a specific character flaw or twist of fate.

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Monologue

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A long dramatic speech delivered by a single character in a play, vocalizing the character’s thoughts.

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Prologue

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An opening to a story that establishes the context and gives background details, often tying into the main story.

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Theatrical Elements

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Elements used by dramatists and directors to tell a story and create an interpretation on stage or in a filmed version of a staged play.

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Protagonist

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The main character in a drama, often facing a conflict that drives the narrative.

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Antagonist

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A character or force in conflict with the protagonist, often creating obstacles for them.

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Soliloquy

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A speech in which a character speaks their thoughts aloud, typically while alone on stage.

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Dramatic Irony

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A situation in a play where the audience knows more about the events than the characters, creating tension.

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Stage Directions

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Instructions in the script of a play that indicate movement, position, or tone of the actors.