Dramatic Foils

Picture Brainstorm In a moment, I will present you with a short series of images. You will have one minute per photo to write down your general impressions: what strikes you as interesting about the picture? What does the image remind you of? Etc. Be prepared to share your responses.

Photo Discussion General Impressions? What was noticeable?

What is a Dramatic Foil? The name “foil” refers to the bright metal placed under a jewel to increase its brilliance. In regards to literature, a “foil” is any person who through contrast underscores the distinctive characteristics of another.

What is a Dramatic Foil? A type of character who sets off--or highlights--aspects of the protagonist in a play. A foil character usually has the opposite traits of the protagonist. A foil is much like the twin character in class, rank, and background but has opposing characteristics that provide a mirror to those of the paired character.

Examples Sherlock Holmes vs. Dr. Watson Batman vs. Robin Romeo vs. Friar Lawrence Riggs vs. Murtagh (from Lethal Weapon) Any others?

Activity The FOIL Method (First, Outer, Inner, Last) is a process used in algebra to multiply expressions in two sets of parenthesis. Apply those questions to Romeo and Mercutio: a. What is the FIRST thing that you notice about the two characters? b. What OUTER characteristic is most noticeable about the two characters? (i.e., what is less noticeable at first but apparent over time?) c. What INNER characteristic is most noticeable about the two characters? (i.e., how would you describe their inner feelings?) d. What is the LAST thing that you notice about the two characters? (what impression do you have of Romeo/Mercutio at the end of Act I, Scene iv?)