Characters Themes Writing Style Language Societal/Political References Use of Similes and Metaphors Use of Setting

What to look for, some things to think about: Motivation- What motivates this character’s words or actions? What does the play say about this character? (provided before the play in a character description) What do other characters say about this character? What does this character say about him or herself? What is his or her subtext? (Information that is implied but not stated by a character ) What is the emotional makeup of this character? How does this character change throughout the play? How does this character use language?

What is the play’s message? Complicated plots include both the central theme and secondary ideas. Are there any specific statements or actions by the characters that explicitly or implicitly announce a theme? Are there symbols in the play that represent the theme? At what point does the theme emerge most distinctly in the play? Is the theme subtle or obvious? Is it personal, social, or political?

An author’s writing style is going to reveal the personality and voice of the author. Things to consider: First off: is the play written in a metrical pattern? (Iambic pentameter or blank verse) Who is the audience? (who is the author writing to/for?) What is his or her opinion about the subject they are writing about? What is the author’s goal? (persuade, inform, entertain) Does the play contain multiple plot lines? Do they interweave or stay separate? Is there a recurring element that you notice throughout each act or scene? (hook, type of conflict) Think about the overall construction of the play.

Most writing is derived or inspired from some sort of event or series of events that has happened or is happening. Plays can bring these events to the stage as a form of entertainment, as way to inform audience members, or to give the audience a different perspective. Things to think about: When was the play written? Where does the play take place? Historically, what was going on during that time? (politically, socially) How does the author reference or bring to light these issues? Do any characters represent real-life people? Is the play a true story? A work of fiction? Is the play an allegory? (a device used to present an idea, principle or meaning)

Similes- comparisons using “like” or “as” Ex: “he is as dumb as a rock,” “Life is like a box of chocolates” Metaphors- a literary figure of speech that describes a subject by asserting that it is, on some point of comparison, the same as another otherwise unrelated object. Ex: “All the worlds a stage” “My wife is a ball and chain” Things to consider: How often do similes or metaphors appear in the play? How are they used? (are they representing something bigger? Or are they just part of the regular dialogue?) How dense are the similes/metaphors? Are they simple? Or are they used as a tool to move the plot or reveal information about the characters?

The setting of a play can mean everything. Some plays take place in a single area, while others move around. The setting of a play can represent and influence any number of elements within the play itself. Things to consider: Where does the play take place? What roles does the setting play in the plot? Theme? How do the characters interact with the setting? Does the setting change? How are the characters affected by the setting? Remember, because a play is performed on a single stage, the setting will play a huge part in the writing of the play.

Your job is going to involve choosing one of these elements and analyzing it within both plays by offering a comparison. How does this element differ between the two plays? Are they the same or very different? Do they represent the same idea but are presented in different ways? Most importantly: how is this evident within the written work of the play? Note: you might also consider looking into outside sources, or other people who have analyzed the play.

If you want to change your playwrights, now is the time. By next class period, you must have: Made a final decision on two plays/playwrights, including a short summary of the play. Have proof that you can access a copy of the play. You can print it out or show me where you can access it Made a decision as to which element(s) you wish to analyze.