Theatrical Terms Flashcard

Front

What is 'catharsis' in a theatrical context?

Back

Emotional release after the downfall of a tragic character.

Front

What is the term for an over-statement of the truth?

Back

Exaggeration.

Front

What is 'emotional appeal' in literature?

Back

Appeals to emotions, feelings, and mind.

Front

What is a 'Dress Rehearsal'?

Back

A rehearsal conducted as if it was an actual performance, includes costumes and make-up.

Front

What does 'incongruity' mean in a theatrical context?

Back

Anything out of time, place, or character.

Front

Define 'farce' in theatre.

Back

A comic dramatic work using buffoonery and horseplay, typically including crude characterization and ludicrously improbable situations.

Front

What is 'dramatic irony'?

Back

A situation where the audience knows more about the events of a story than the characters do.

Front

What is a 'monologue'?

Back

A long speech by one character in a play, often expressing their thoughts aloud.

Front

Define 'soliloquy'.

Back

An act of speaking one's thoughts aloud when alone, often used in drama to reveal a character's inner thoughts.

Front

What is 'blocking' in theatre?

Back

The precise staging of actors in order to facilitate the performance.