Dramatic structure and plot
• Plot
• Rare structure
Plot
• Plot is the central aspect of all drama, for
drama is primarily concerned with what
happens. “Plot” is basically another term
for structure, the difference being that
when we discuss plot we more or less are
committed to discussing everything that
happens in the play
Plot
• Any plot of dramatic work necessarily has
to do with conflict. Throughout the play
there are repeating challenges of one
force by another: Antigone clashes with
the gods. Othello clashes with jealousy
Plot
• A plot presents incidents in which the
opposing forces meet head-on until there
is some sort of final resolution
• The most important aspect of plot is its
relationship to character.
• Everything in the plot is introduced
because of the particular feelings of
particular character at a particular time.
Plot
• There is nothing in the play which is not s
product of character motivation.
• Plot translates the essence of the
characters’ ideas into appropriate actions.
• Plot informs us as to what the characters
are like
Plot
• While we talk about the structure of a play
in terms of artistic development and
relationship of part, we also need to refer
specifically to the plot, to the actions
which, in effect, delineate the characters.
Plot
• All of the actions arise out the characters
and thus we must explain the actions in
terms of the characters
• When we discuss plot then, no matter for
what ultimate purpose, we necessarily
need to pay more attention to the fine
points regarding the various characters
Rare structure
• Not every play can be discussed both in
terms of rising action and climax. As well
as in terms of peculiarities of structure.
• Many plays simply are constructed in an
entirely individual way and any analysis of
structure needs to focus on this
individuality.