- Alienation and Isolation: Modern drama often explores the sense of alienation and isolation experienced by individuals in contemporary society. Characters may feel disconnected from their surroundings and from each other, struggling to find meaning and purpose in their lives.
- Identity: The search for identity and self-expression is another prevalent theme in modern drama. Characters may grapple with questions about who they are, what they want, and how they fit into society.
- Social Issues: Modern drama frequently addresses social issues such as inequality, poverty, racism, and political oppression. Playwrights use their work to raise awareness of these issues and to encourage social change.
- Existentialism: Existentialism, which explores the meaning of life and the responsibility of individuals to create their own existence, is a common theme in modern drama. Characters may struggle with questions about the purpose of life, the existence of God, and the nature of freedom and choice.
- Absurdism: Absurdism, which suggests that life is meaningless and irrational, is another theme that appears in modern drama. Playwrights may use absurd situations or characters to convey a sense of the futility of human existence.
- Technology: The impact of technology on human life is a frequent topic in modern drama. Playwrights explore how technology can both benefit and harm society, raising questions about privacy, surveillance, and the future of humanity.
- Memory and Trauma: Modern drama often delves into the themes of memory and trauma, exploring how past events can shape and haunt the lives of individuals. Characters may grapple with traumatic memories or the loss of loved ones, seeking to come to terms with their past in order to move forward.
- Politics: Political themes are common in modern drama, with playwrights using their work to comment on current events and social injustices. They may explore issues such as war, censorship, government oppression, and the abuse of power.
These are just a few of the many themes that can be found in modern drama, reflecting the complexity and diversity of the genre.