Like Greek Tragedies, realistic contemporary plays are concerned with social issues (how and what to govern, how private life clashes with public, who is oppressing whom? examining philosophy and belief systems, the trouble of communication, etc.), questions of existence (what does my life mean?), and, in general, the problems of "slings and arrows" of our daily lives (which in contemporary life usually revolves around economics and money).
Since tragedy is a bit out dated, realism is often the preferred style of writing. For the writer this includes: writing about real situations, examining psychology of your characters (getting into their heads), and using dialogue to reflect how modern people talk.
Realism examines problems and assumes that solutions are possible. If your characters talk things out, take action to direct their own desires, wants, life, etc. to create change, create solutions for common problems in society and life, then you have come close to the spirit of realism.
Realist plays are also called "problem plays" for a reason. At their core, these plays present common human problems and we watch as the characters attempt to solve them.
Today, we will finish viewing Hedda Gabbler. Afterward, let's chat a bit about the play and what you noticed.
We will slink down to the library after our discussion to pick up our next play: A Raisin in the Sun by Lorainne Hansberry. More information about her will be posted above.
HOMEWORK: Please complete "A Raisin in the Sun"
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
The Murky Middle (Even More Advice)
Aristotle wrote that stories should have a beginning, middle, and end. Middles can be difficult. You might have a smashing opening to a stor...
No comments:
Post a Comment