Rising and Underlying Tension III

Different areas, similar patterns.

But this pattern of tension seems limited to humanity. Of course, the animal world experiences tension, but this is almost inevitably released through some form of instant aggression. There are no past grudges or future fears for these animals, their concern is the now and survival in the moment. So why is it that humanity must alone experience these forms of political and personal tension?

The answer to that question is intrinsically connected to the question "Why did society develop in the first place?". Both questions are just as complex and unclear. But we can be clear that this incessant living in the past and future is a social issue. From advertisements to the very language we use, we constantly regret past mistakes and 'look forward' to future strife. We cannot escape this any more than we can escape the fact that humans are social beings.

Like other animals, we are instinctively inclined to vent our aggression and tension when it arises. Social laws inhibit this and punish those that cannot control their tension. Instead, 'acceptable' methods of release like wars or passive aggression are allowed in the social system. Society may have developed naturally, but it fails to master the natural tendencies of humanity. In short, we are animal creatures that have adopted social patterns.

For this reason, explosions of tension in personal and political life are not likely, they are inevitable.

-The English Student

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