Exploring Key Terms in Drama and August Wilson's 'Fences'

What is the primary difference between a play and a drama?

• A play is always a comedy, while a drama is always a tragedy.

• A play is meant for performance, while a drama is meant to be read.

• A play is meant to be read, while a drama is meant for performance.

• A play has no audience interaction, while a drama does.

What is the initial part of a drama where characters and conflict are introduced?

• Exposition

• Complication

• Resolution

• Climax

Which type of drama typically ends unhappily and deals with serious themes?

• Comedy

• Farce

• Tragedy

• Melodrama

In a comedy, what is a common plot formula?

• Boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy wins girl

• Hero faces downfall due to a tragic flaw

• Conflict between right and wrong

• Struggle against destiny

What is a monologue in drama?

• Remarks made to the audience

• A long speech by one character to others

• A conversation between characters

• A speech by a character alone on stage

What is the role of a foil in drama?

• To narrate the story

• To serve as the main antagonist

• To emphasize the qualities of the main character

• To provide comic relief

What does foreshadowing in a story do?

• Provides background information

• Resolves the conflict

• Hints at future events

• Introduces the main characters

What is personification in drama?

• A long speech by one character to others

• A conversation between characters

• A speech by a character alone on stage

• Giving human characteristics to non-human entities

What is an example of dramatic irony?

• A naive hero's incorrect perceptions

• A firehouse burning down

• The audience knowing more about a situation than the character

• A character making a sarcastic remark

What is the central idea behind a story called?

• Setting

• Plot

• Character

• Theme