Modern Theater

Which trait distinguishes modern drama from traditional drama?

• The plot of a modern drama does not always follow a strict structure and might end without a clear resolution.

• While traditional drama usually stuck to a five-act structure, modern drama can vary from three to eight acts.

• Modern dramas are generally written in verse, while most traditional dramas are written in a combination of prose and verse.

• Modern dramas generally feature stock characters, while characters in most traditional dramas are distinct and

  well-defined.

Which of the following are major concerns of writing a play?

• plot

• correct grammar

• stage directions

• prologue

Which of these qualities is generally true of both traditional and modern plays?

• They fall into one of these two categories:

• They contain exposition, rising action, climax, and falling action, in that order.

• They conclude with the resolution of the main conflict they explore.

• They contain elements such as dialogue, setting, characters, and plot.

How does the plot of act 1 of Eugene O'Neill's Beyond the Horizon parallel the plots of more traditional plays?

• As in most traditional plays, the plot of act 1 of Beyond the Horizon is designed to give the audience a short prologue showing what's coming next.

• As in most traditional plays, the plot of act 1 of Beyond the Horizon is designed to provide exposition and build up the tension of the play.

• As in most traditional plays, the plot of act 1 of Beyond the Horizon is designed to bring the conflict of the play to a head to hold the audience's attention.

• As in most traditional plays, the plot of act 1 of Beyond the Horizon is designed to propel the action of the play toward its final resolution.

Eugene O’Neil’s experience with the Marine Transport Workers Union influenced what reoccurring theme in his plays?

• education

• the sea

• poetry

• journalism

In the opening scene of Eugene O'Neill's Beyond the Horizon, Robert is described as “gazing” toward the horizon repeatedly throughout the conversations with other characters. What does the horizon symbolize about Robert’s dreams for his future?

• adventure

• obedience

• family

• nature

Which theme of Eugene O'Neill's Beyond the Horizon is reflected in this excerpt from act 1 of the play?

ROBERT. No, I oughtn’t. (Pointing to the horizon—dreamily) Supposing I was to tell you that it’s just Beauty that’s calling me, the beauty of the far off and unknown, the mystery and spell of the East which lures me in the books I’ve read, the need of the freedom of great wide spaces, the joy of wandering on and on—in quest of the secret which is hidden over there, beyond the horizon? Suppose I told you that was the one and only reason for my going?

• the value of reading books

• the value of traveling

• importance of following one's dreams

• importance of family values

A dramatic work with a happy ending is categorized as what type of drama?

• comedy

• tragedy

• tragicomedy

• modern

In what ways does Andrew provide a contrast to Robert in Eugene O'Neill's Beyond the Horizon?

• Andrew is content to stay on the family farm, while Robert dreams of traveling.

• Andrew cares more about his family’s wishes than Robert does.

• Andrew enjoys working the land when Robert prefers reading and thoughts of adventure.

• Andrew is resentful about Robert leaving the farm and the family.

Which line in the excerpt from Eugene O'Neill's Beyond the Horizon reflects the idea of pursuing one's dreams?

There was all the mystery in the world to me then about that—far-off sea—and there still is! It called to me then just as it does now. (After a slight pause) And other times my eyes would follow this road, winding off into the distance, toward the hills, as if it, too, was searching for the sea. And I’d promise myself that when I grew up and was strong, I’d follow that road, and it and I would find the sea together. (With a smile) You see, my making this trip is only keeping that promise of long ago.

• There was all the mystery in the world to me then about that—far-off sea—and there still is! It called to me then just as it does now.

• And other times my eyes would follow this road, winding off into the distance, toward the hills, as if it, too, was searching for the sea

• And I’d promise myself that when I grew up and was strong, I’d follow that road, and it and I would find the sea together.

• You see, my making this trip is only keeping that promise of long ago.