Intro To Theatre Arts Dramatic Structure The Plan

Intro. To Theatre Arts Dramatic Structure: The Plan by Aristotle and Gustav Freytag

The Plan Aristotle: Literature has structure n Freytag on Tragedy, 1863: 5 elements in separate acts n Pyramid outlines flow n n Minor, modern variations

Freytag: The Beginning Narration, Dialogue n n Freytag Model n Classical, Tragedy: Inciting moment/complication Initial Incident Introduction/Exposition – Background, plot, theme, setting, characters – “Dusting Maid Exposition”

Freytag: The Beginning Narration, Dialogue n n Freytag Model n Classical, Tragedy: Inciting moment/complication Initial Incident Introduction/Exposition – Background, plot, theme, setting, characters – “Dusting Maid Exposition”

Rising Action n n Freytag Model Increase in tension Uncertainty develops Protagonist faces conflict Sometimes: complication

Rising Action n n Freytag Model Increase in tension Uncertainty develops Protagonist faces conflict Sometimes: complication

The Crisis n Tradition: Act III – Protagonist’s fortunes worsen – Downfall is irreversible n Freytag Model n n Moment of greatest tension Audience fully involved Other Labels – Climax – Turning Point

The Crisis n Tradition: Act III – Protagonist’s fortunes worsen – Downfall is irreversible n Freytag Model n n Moment of greatest tension Audience fully involved Other Labels – Climax – Turning Point

Falling Action n Freytag Model Hero’s failing fortunes Final catastrophe begins Emotional purge – Audience Catharsis (purging of emotions; relieving emotional tensions)

Falling Action n Freytag Model Hero’s failing fortunes Final catastrophe begins Emotional purge – Audience Catharsis (purging of emotions; relieving emotional tensions)

Moment of Last Suspense n n Freytag Model Catastrophe spirals outward Hero suffers or dies Loved/protected may suffer Labels: – Resolution – Dénouement

Moment of Last Suspense n n Freytag Model Catastrophe spirals outward Hero suffers or dies Loved/protected may suffer Labels: – Resolution – Dénouement: Unwinds tension, provides closure

Moment of Last Suspense n n Freytag Model Catastrophe spirals outward Hero suffers or dies Loved/protected may suffer Labels: – Resolution – Dénouement: Unwinds tension, provides closure (bringing the parts together)

Moment of Last Suspense n n Freytag Model Catastrophe spirals outward Hero suffers or dies Loved/protected may suffer Labels: – Resolution – Dénouement: Unwinds tension, provides closure (bringing the parts together)

Moment of Last Suspense Modern variations – – Suspense/Inconclusive ending Open-ended for sequel* Surprise twist Repeat of opening scene Freytag Model *Used more in film than on stage.

Review TP/C RA II/E FA Original Design: Aristotle Modern: Freytag Model R/D

Intro. To Theatre Arts Dramatic Structure: The Plan by Aristotle and Gustav Freytag