Lesson 5: Elements of Drama

• Dynamic character:

  • Changes throughout the story due to events
  • May have good or bad changes in motivations, desires, or personality
  • Shows permanent change and development over time
• Flat character:

  • Does not change much or at all throughout the story
  • Personality and background not well revealed
  • Only a few traits known about them
• Foil character:

  • Opposite traits to another character
  • Reflects the opposite traits, contrasting two characters
• Round character:

  • Similar to a dynamic character
  • Changes throughout the story, gaining new traits, some opposite to their original traits
• Stock character:

  • Not significant to the story
  • Does not change at all
  • Often cliche characters like "dumb jock" or "popular cheerleader"
• Protagonist or Main Character:

  • Root of the story
  • Develops over time and drives the plot
  • Character readers care most about
• Antagonist:

  • Opposite of the protagonist
  • Opposes the main character and drives the plot
• Stereotype:

  • Identifies a particular group or segment of society
  • Represents a familiar character type
• Archetype:

  • Includes mentor and daddy
  • Represents universal symbols or patterns in literature
• Stage Directions:

  • Describe setting details, sound effects, and character actions
  • Direct characters on how to speak lines, move, act, and look
  • Found in brackets [ ]
  • Describe scenery and character movements like C (Center Stage), L (Stage Left), R (Stage Right), U (Upstage or Rear), D (Downstage or Front)