The Six Elements of Aristotle

Aristotle wrote in his Poetics his theory of drama. It is still a major part of looking at what is essential in drama throughout history. They are held in various levels of importance. They Include:

 

Action or Plot: Plot is the order of events that tell the story of the play.

• Actions are things characters do that move the plot forward. Good.

• Activities are things the character does that keeps them busy. Not as productive.

• Plots move the story forward while subplots lead away from the main action of the play. You need to make sure that those subplots do not draw too much from the focus on the main plot. Don't take too many steps away from the plot.

  • Subplots offer a step away, but they draw the story forward with its own actions towards its own miniature climax and conclusion. It also should provide a connection and relevance to the main plot.

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   The main type of plot is the standard plot triangle, though reverse plot, circular plots, flashback plots, and other non-standard formats do exist.

 

Character: All your characters must compel the audiences attention, they can't be dull. Anyone can be compelling, it depends on what they do. They have the greatest needs, the problems, and the potential. Do they interest you? If not, why should they anyone else? Characters are defined by what they want, when the wants of different characters are in opposition, you have conflict.

•     Character Goals

  •        Concrete goals are better that abstract goals.

  • Positive goals are better than negative goals.

  • Active goals are better than reactive goals.

   

Characters should be likable, does not mean they have to be nice.

   Characters are defined by

• What a character says about themselves

• What other characters say about them

• What the character does

   

Character needs

• Strong goals

• Difficult Obstacles

• Talents and opportunity

 

Thought or Ideas: Now often considered the theme. It has to be something that people will care about, not just you. But you do need to care about it.

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Language, Diction or Verbal Expression: Be mindful of how people talk. The use of slang, accents, dialects, vocabulary, speech patterns, and other factors all play into how the character is perceived.

   Monologue: When one person speaks for an extended period of time.

   Dialogue: When two or more people are talking

   All dialogue must be both expressive and economical.

Music or Song: This element also deals with sound and silence. The world is a crazy place and the use of music, song, or sound can help draw in the audiences attention. Not just for musicals.

Spectacle, Image, or Visual Adornment: Things that make the audience go "WOW".

   Stage combat

   Elaborate sets or costumes

   Innovations to theatre

   Unorthodox ideas