Conflict; The Loveliest Afternoon of the Year; 10-Minute Play example & writing

Recall the dramatic triangle & roots of action. Now, let's look a little closer at conflict.

At its core, all plays are about characters in conflict. The five common types of literary conflict include:

1. Person v. Person
2. Person v. Self
3. Person v. Nature (also human nature)
4. Person v. Society
5. Person v. Fate, the Supernatural, or God

Please get into groups of 2-4. Read "The Loveliest Afternoon of the Year" by John Guare (see below). 

As you read the short play "The Loveliest Afternoon of the Year" by John Guare, identify different ways in which the playwright uses conflict as a dramatic centerpiece for the comedy. Take note of the kinds of conflict that occur in the play and write down the type (see above) and a brief description as to what the conflict is. Additionally, discuss how the playwright uses the dramatic triangle as a device (ex. consider the role of the character "Maud"); What "roots of action" does Guare use in his play. Discuss these ideas with your group.

When your group finishes, please look over the 10-minute play project listed in the post below this one, and work on your script. Write. Avoid unnecessary conversation. That's just going to slow you down and delay the inevitable--a draft of your 10-minute play.

HOMEWORK: Read the 10-minute plays. Continue working on your 10-minute play script draft.