Drama Glossary

The struggle between two opposing forces within a narrative.

A character with consistency behaves in a way that is true to their personality throughout the play. They don’t do things that go wildly against what we know about them.

The basic story and message that is communicated by a play.

Anything about how a play’s world operates.

Also called “black comedy,” takes a pessimistic view of the world.

Usually referring to a confident male character that is stylish and charming.

French for "unknotting," after the conflict is resolved and the complexities of the plot are concluded. Also called the Resolution.

Theatre in which the script is created from a collaborative, often-improvised process.

The words spoken by characters in a play.

Occurs when the audience has information that the characters do not.

In new play development, a dramaturg helps the playwright develop the script by moderating feedback sessions, conducting research, and assisting the playwright in fleshing out story and structure.

The historical and literary study of the composition and production of plays.