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Often, classic theatre is described as having 'universal' themes. Such themes show an understanding of human nature, presenting stories that touched audiences regardless of ethnicity, gender, or social circumstance. Discuss what constitutes a 'universal' theme. How do playwrights use these ideas to craft stories that stand the test of time? Are there still 'universal' themes? Can Shakespeare's plays still hold an audience's attention? |
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How do theatre collaborators determine the purpose of a play? Using Shapespeare's Hamlet, discuss how the playwright's purpose might be opposed to a modern director's purpose in producing the play. |
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If you were working as a playwright, how would you determine who and what to focus on in dramatizing your personal experience? What story would you choose to tell? What point of view would you use to craft your story for an audience? |
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In this chapter, the point of view of both playwright and society are discussed as holding relevance to theatre. The outlook of society provides the backdrop for any production. What are some social factors that might affect modern audiences? How does the current world view shape theatre? |
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As presented in the chapter, define genre. Discuss the problems raised by attempting to categorize plays and other theatrical works. Draw from film and television as well as theatre to show examples of the difficulties and benefits of labeling dramatic works. |
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How would you define or classify the new breed of television shows such as Survivor, The Bachelor, The Osbournes, and The Real World. Are these shows dramatic? Do they have purpose or point of view? Is this a new genre of drama or is it something else entirely? |
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