1. Internal Conflict: The main character or characters may face internal struggles, dilemmas, or emotional turmoil that create a sense of pressure. These conflicts could involve making difficult choices, overcoming fears, or dealing with moral dilemmas.
2. External Conflict: External conflicts include challenges or obstacles that the characters face from outside forces, such as opposing characters, society, nature, or circumstances beyond their control. These conflicts create tension and uncertainty, raising the stakes for the characters and increasing the pressure.
3. Time Constraints: Dramatic pressure can also be heightened by time constraints. When characters are racing against time to achieve a goal or avoid a negative outcome, it creates a sense of urgency and builds tension.
4. High Stakes: The story's stakes should be significant and have far-reaching consequences for the characters involved. The higher the stakes, the greater the pressure and emotional impact on the audience.
5. Pacing: The skillful use of pacing in a drama or play can build and release pressure. Scenes may alternate between moments of intense conflict and brief periods of respite, creating a rollercoaster effect that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.
6. Unpredictability: Introducing unexpected twists and turns in the plot can heighten pressure by keeping the audience unsure of what will happen next. This uncertainty adds to the overall sense of tension and intrigue.
7. Catharsis: The release of pressure often leads to moments of catharsis for both the characters and the audience. This emotional release can come through a resolution of the conflict, a significant decision, or a turning point in the story.
By employing these elements of pressure, playwrights and dramatists create compelling and engaging stories that resonate with audiences on a deep emotional level, leaving them invested in the outcome of the events unfolding on stage.