1. Dialogue: Drama is heavily reliant on dialogue, often serving as the primary means of conveying plot, character development, and conflict. Dialogue in drama is typically more concise and action-oriented than in novels, as it must propel the story forward while engaging the audience.
2. Action and Conflict: Drama thrives on conflict and action. Unlike some literary forms that might focus on internal reflection or subtle character development, drama demands overt action and external conflict to drive the plot and maintain audience engagement.
3. Visual Elements: Drama is meant to be performed, and therefore incorporates visual elements that are not present in written narratives. This includes:
* Stage directions: These are specific instructions for the actors, set designers, and directors, outlining movement, blocking, lighting, and sound.
* Costumes and makeup: Visual cues that help to establish character and setting.
* Set design: The physical environment where the play takes place, creating a specific atmosphere and impacting the story.
4. Structure: Drama often follows a specific structure, often divided into acts and scenes, with a clear beginning, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. This structure helps to create a sense of pacing and anticipation for the audience.
5. Audience Engagement: Drama is inherently interactive. The audience directly engages with the performance through their reactions, creating a shared experience. This engagement is often amplified by techniques such as:
* Breaks in the fourth wall: Characters might address the audience directly, blurring the line between the fictional world and the real one.
* Physical humor and emotional moments: Drama uses these elements to evoke strong reactions and connect with the audience on a deeper level.
6. Limited Narration: Unlike novels, which often rely on extensive narration, drama typically relies on dialogue and action to convey the story. The playwright might provide some exposition through characters' dialogue, but extensive narration is usually avoided.
7. Emphasis on the Present: Drama typically focuses on the present moment, with little time spent on flashbacks or extended descriptions of past events. This focus on the immediate action keeps the audience engaged in the unfolding story.
It's important to remember that these elements are not mutually exclusive. Novels, screenplays, and even poetry can utilize elements of drama, but their primary focus and purpose often differ. Drama stands out as a unique genre due to its emphasis on dialogue, action, visual elements, and its interactive nature.