speech delivered by a character who is alone on the stage. utters thoughts aloud, a way to inform the audience of motivations and state of mind.

hints that suggest what is to come later- typically introduced early in a story

Opening scenes of a play, background info presented, info critical to understanding the present action.

a character who serves as a contrast or a conflict to another character, similar to the protagonist, serves to highlight the distinctive temperament of the protagonist.

Recounts downfall. begin high and end low. He/she possess a tragic flaw, an error, weakness, or defect that leads to his downfall such as greed, pride, or ambition. ends in catharsis

contradictory statements or situations to reveal a reality different or the opposite of what appears to be true.

printed text of the play. Imitated human action - a play, "to do or to act". includes play text, dialogue and stage directions ....to please, to instruct

facts are not known to the characters but are known by the audience. Ex. Romeo is married to Juliet

says something in jest that in actuality is true. or means something different than what is said or the audience realizes. Ex. saying the opposite of what you mean / sarcasm.

happens, what is expected and actually happens. due to forces beyond human comprehension or control.

ideas expressed in play - message or central focus, revealed through dialogue and actions

tragic failure usually the death of the hero and all those connected with him.

a type or category of literature. The four main literary genres include: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama.

words spoken by characters

actions performed by actors - instructions to the actors, director and stage crew in the script of a play