Dramatic Conventions
What is the term for a conversation between two or more characters in a play?
Dialogue
What archetype represents a character who guides or teaches the hero?
The Mentor
What is the term for the opening scene of a TV show or movie that sets up the story?
The exposition or opening sequence.
Name one of the four main types of conflict in literature and drama.
Man vs. Man, Man vs. Self, Man vs. Nature, Man vs. Society.
How does Walter try to fix his mistake in A Raisin in the Sun?
What is the difference between a monologue and a soliloquy?
A monologue is a long speech by one character to others, while a soliloquy is a speech where a character speaks their thoughts aloud, usually alone on stage to the audience.
Which archetype often opposes the hero and creates conflict in the story?
The Villain
How does music contribute to drama in TV or film?
Music sets the mood, builds tension, and enhances emotional impact.
What type of conflict involves a character struggling against what is normal or expected of them?
Man vs. Society
What kind of conflict did Mercer face in "La Juanita"?
Man vs Society
What is an aside, and how does it function in play?
An aside is when a character speaks directly to the audience or themselves, unheard by other characters, to reveal inner thoughts or secrets.
What archetype fits a character who sacrifices themselves for others?
The Caregiver or the Martyr
What does "character arc" mean in TV shows or movies?
A character arc refers to how a character grows or changes over the course of a story.
In tragedies, what usually happens during the climax of a story?
The protagonist faces their greatest challenge or makes a critical decision that leads to their downfall.
What was the main character dealing with in "People Should Not Die in June in South Texas"? Bonus Points: What kind of conflict is that?
She was dealing with the death of her father. Man vs Self.
What is dramatic irony? Give an example.
Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something the characters do not. Example: In Romeo and Juliet, the audience knows Juliet is alive when Romeo believes she is dead.
In A Raisin in the Sun, which archetype best describes Mama? Why?
The Sage or Mentor, because she provides wisdom and guidance to her family.
Name one example of dramatic irony from a popular movie or TV show. Explain why it’s dramatic irony.
In The Lion King, Simba believes he caused Mufasa’s death, but the audience knows Scar was responsible.
Give an example of Man vs. Self conflict from any book, movie, or TV show you’ve seen. Explain briefly.
In Black Panther, T’Challa struggles with his identity as both king and warrior while deciding how Wakanda should engage with the world.
What was the moment of embarrassment in the excerpt we read of Funny in Farsi?
When her mom was called to the front of the class, but didn't know where Iran was on the map.
What are stage directions, and why are they important in plays?
Stage directions are instructions in the script that describe actions, movements, or emotions of characters. They help actors and directors bring the play to life.
Name an archetypes commonly found in tragedies and briefly describe their role.
The Tragic Hero (a flawed protagonist whose downfall evokes pity)
How do close-up shots contribute to drama in film?
Close-up shots focus on characters' facial expressions to convey emotions and create intimacy with the audience.
How does resolution differ between comedies and tragedies?
In comedies, conflicts are resolved happily (e.g., marriage, reconciliation). In tragedies, conflicts often end with loss or death (e.g., downfall of the protagonist).
What was Claudette Colvin known for?
She was one of the women who sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott.