Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
A very admiring book about someone or a description of someone that represents the person as perfect or much better than they really are. For example, biographies of saints or visionary figures.
A sensory experience that appears real but is created by the mind; often portrayed in drama for psychological effect. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
The central character in a play, often one who faces conflict and undergoes a journey or transformation. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
Prejudice or discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, sometimes explored as a theme in dramatic works. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
Hubris is excessive pride, arrogance, or self-confidence that leads a character to defy moral or divine law. In classical tragedy, hubris often causes the downfall of rulers or heroes who overestimate their own power. It serves as a warning about the dangers of ignoring limits set by the gods, society, or fate.
The event or decision that sets the main story in motion, introducing the central conflict and prompting the protagonist to act. This pivotal moment often appears early in a play or script and is essential for driving the plot forward. It marks the point of no return for the characters and helps establish the story's stakes.
A struggle within a character’s mind or emotions that drives dramatic tension and character development.
A literary device where the intended meaning differs from the literal meaning, often creating contrast or humor. Irony is used in theatre to provoke thought or elicit reactions from the audience by highlighting contradictions in character behavior or plot outcomes.
A plot device involving abduction, commonly used in thrillers or moral dramas to create suspense and urgency.
A narrative structure where events occur in chronological order, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
A character trait indicating excessive talkativeness, often used in comedies to highlight eccentricity or humor.
Relating to the gruesome or morbid, often used in theatrical works that explore death or horror. Macabre themes are prevalent in Gothic drama and add emotional weight through dark imagery and mood.