Stock Characters These are the cliché characters of melodrama, although not supposed to be lifelike, they had to be identifiable and familiar to the audience

The Hero Handsome, strong, brave Honest and reliable Generally middle class or higher Usually normal clothes (tuxedo or smartly dressed because of class) Strong gestures and loud, strong voice

The Heroine Beautiful, courageous Innocent and vulnerable Generally middle class or higher Usually wears dresses, corsets, jewellery High, lady-like speech and gestures

The Villain Cunning, without morals Dishonest Cruel and evil Generally middle class or higher Dressed in cloak, dark clothes, generally has a moustache to twirl maniacally Deep, dark voice and snake-like gestures

The Villain’s accomplice (minion) Usually comic relief Bumbling sidekick Generally lower class Dressed either in rags or fancy clothes depending on the villain Stuttering and sometimes fearful speech towards the villain Lower gestures and stance

The Faithful Servant Also comic relief Does the dirty work Sometimes finds evidence against the villain Lower class Dressed in smart clothes, tux and what not Respectful and precise gestures and speech

The Maid Servant Lively Flirts with the faithful servant Lower class Dressed in maid outfit Quiet and respectful speech and gestures

Bibliography Some books in Mrs Stone’s bookcase orian_stage_melodrama orian_stage_melodrama Google images