ENGLISH 10 –
Structural Context of Drama as Film
I. WHAT IS DRAMA?
Drama is a form of literature intended for performance. It presents human experiences
through characters, dialogue, actions, conflict, and emotions.
Importance of Learning Drama:
1. To Share Unique Perspectives
• Helps us understand different experiences and viewpoints.
• Promotes respect for diversity.
2. To Break Stereotypes and Challenge Bias
• Encourages critical thinking.
• Helps create a more inclusive society.
3. To Build Empathy and Understanding
• Allows us to see situations from another person's perspective.
• Develops compassion and awareness.
IMPORTANT TERMS IN DRAMA
Character – A person in a story
Plot – Sequence of events in a story
Conflict – Central struggle or problem
Dialogue – Spoken interaction between characters
Theme – Main message or lesson
II. CHARACTER AND CHARACTERIZATION
Character – A person, animal, or being that takes part in a story.
Types of Characters:
• Protagonist – the main character.
• Antagonist – the character or force opposing the protagonist.
Characterization – the method an author uses to reveal a character's personality, traits,
attitudes, and motivations.
A. Direct Characterization
The author directly tells the reader what a character is like.
Examples:
• Maria is a hardworking and responsible student.
• Geri is an intelligent old man.
B. Indirect Characterization
The author shows a character's traits through clues. Readers infer the traits.
STEAL Method:
S – Speech (what the character says)
T – Thoughts (what the character thinks or feels)
E – Effect on Others (how others react)
A – Actions (what the character does)
L – Looks (physical appearance)
How Characters Are Revealed:
• Physical appearance
• Speech/dialogue
• Thoughts and feelings
• Actions and behavior
• Reactions of other characters
III. FOUR MAIN TYPES OF CHARACTERS
1. Flat Character
• Has only one or two traits.
• Simple and predictable.
2. Round Character
• Complex and realistic.
• Shows many emotions, strengths, and weaknesses.
3. Static Character
• Does not change throughout the story.
4. Dynamic Character
• Changes because of experiences or events.
Geri from Geri’s Game is a round character because he shows different emotions and traits.
He can also be considered dynamic because different sides of his personality are revealed
throughout the story.
IV. CONFLICT IN DRAMA
Conflict is the struggle between opposing forces in a story.
Importance of Conflict:
• Creates tension
• Develops characters
• Makes stories interesting
Types of Conflict:
1. Character vs. Self
A struggle within a character’s mind or emotions.
2. Character vs. Character
A struggle between two or more characters.
3. Character vs. Nature
A struggle against natural forces.
4. Character vs. Supernatural
A struggle against magical or supernatural forces.
5. Character vs. Technology
A struggle against machines, inventions, or technology.
6. Character vs. Society
A struggle against laws, traditions, or social expectations.