Definition of the Genre
Drama is a fictional representation characterized by dialogue and performance. It occurs in the form of imitation. Drama is also regarded as a type of play mostly written for theatre, radio, television, and film. Therefore, drama can be defined as a composition, existing in prose or verse, which presents a story either in dialogue or pantomime. The person developing a drama is referred to as playwright or a dramatist. Through the input of drama, a live setting is presented with the help of real characters. As such, the story comes out naturally (Characteristics of Drama).
Primary Conventions and Elements
As a genre, drama has numerous fundamental conventions and elements that distinguish it from other genres. First, drama draws significant use of characters. Characters have a crucial role in the genre and can be in a minor or a significant way. The characters that play a major role in a drama are known as the main characters. The second convention in this genre is known as the plot. The plot is the particular script or course that the drama follows. It begins with the exposition before it moves to the rising action and the falling action. The next step is the climax where the conflict builds up. The last step of the plot is the resolution. Thirdly, drama involves the use of symbols to a larger extent. Symbols include the use of objects, persons, and even gestures that relay an inner meaning that goes beyond the literal one (Characteristics of Drama).
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Literal and Symbolic Meaning
In drama, a dove can represent a bird, but symbolically, the playwright can use it to denote peace. A red rose can provide a literal representation of beauty or flowers. However, as a symbol, it means love. A broken mirror can literally represent damage. Symbolically, it signifies a sense of separation.
Reference
Characteristics of Drama https://medium.com/@english_grammar/characteristics-of-drama-2d42c83e9a08
