Arts >> Theater >> Drama

What are the major forms of drama?

Tragedy

* Typically depicts downfall of protagonist

* Causes include: Fate, character flaw, opposing force

* Focus on suffering, catharsis, human potential

* Themes: Death, justice, power, morality

Comedy

* Explores humorous aspects of human nature

* Common: Satire, slapstick, witty dialogue

* Themes: Love, marriage, family, class, identity

Tragicomedy

* Blends elements of tragedy and comedy

* Presents serious issues in humorous manner

* Themes: Inconsistencies of life, human resilience

Melodrama

* Focuses on heightened emotions, sensational events

* Uses exaggerated situations, characters

* Themes: Good vs evil, love conquers all

Farce

* Emphasizes physical humor, improbable situations

* Often relies on slapstick, wordplay

* Themes: Absurdity of human behavior

Satire

* Criticizes society, human behavior through humor

* Uses sarcasm, irony, exaggeration

* Themes: Social issues, political corruption

Historical drama

* Set in past, depicts historical events, figures

* Aims to recreate history accurately

* Themes: Historical events, lessons, values

Contemporary drama

* Set in present day, explores current social issues

* Often realistic, slice-of-life portrayal

* Themes: Modern life, relationships, cultural issues

Drama

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