dramatic terms-hamlet · dramatic terms-hamlet. character terms 1. tragic hero-a character, usually...

Dramatic Terms-Hamlet

Character Terms 1.  Tragic hero- a character, usually of high

status, who suffers a downfall as a result of a fatal character flaw, errors in judgment, or forces beyond human control.

2.  Foil- a minor character whose attitudes, beliefs, and behavior differ significantly from those of a main character. serves 2 purposes: a. highlights flaws of the main character b. suggests what the main character might

have been like without the flaws.

Speeches 3.  Aside- a comment that is directed to the

audience and that the other characters on the stage are not supposed to hear.

4.  Monologue- a long speech by a character that is spoken while others are on the stage.

5.  Soliloquy- “talking to yourself” speech made alone on stage that reveals private thoughts, motives, and intentions.

Literary Elements/Style Devices 6.  Pun- words or phrases used to suggest two or

more meanings at the same time. A dog gave birth to puppies near the road and was

cited for littering. A sign on the lawn at a drug rehab center said:

'Keep off the Grass.' 7. 

Blank verse- the majority of Hamlet is written in unrhymed iambic pentameter. Shakespeare varied most of his lines to avoid a sing-song and monotonous rhythm and at times to create a specific effect.

8.  Paradox- a statement which seems untrue or self-contradictory, but which reveals a kind of truth. (Ex. They have ears but hear not.)

9.  Stichomythia- repetition in quick

exchanges of dialogue.

Effects of Stichomythia (Why is it used?)

n  To create comedy n  To create confusion (trying to clarify

information) n  To illustrate an argument that is a result

of aggravation and frustration