Literary Genres: Drama

"A tragedy is the imitation of an action"

Since the Greek celebrations of Dionysus, drama has been a prevelant form of entertainment and education in society. But when compared to other forms, drama seems to hold an odd place in the literary canon. Dramatic works are written to be performed and therefore, must be treated differently than prose.

One such difference has always been the source of my problems with drama. A novel is written so that we can interpret the message of the author through the medium. In this way, we bring our own biases and opinions to the work. However, when viewing a play we are forced to observe other's interpretation of a message. A dramatic production is subject to the views of a director, actors and stage designers. This creates another barrier between the viewer and the author.

However, we must also consider that plays are written to be performed and that this effect is not completely undesirable. Eric Voegelin's anthropological theory of the "Drama of Humanity" included the idea that our lives are individual interpretations of fundamental desires. Following this principal when considering drama shows us that any production will necessarily be a unqiue iteration of the author's message. The bias and colour that people bring to drama offer us insight into the message of the play.

When a playwright's message is channeled through other people, it comes to us with the potency and individuality of every person involved. Drama is therefore a truly fascinating genre.

-The English Student