APLIT Terms #1

absurdist drama

aka theater of the absurd, post WWII; plays that show what happens when humanity lacks meaning or purpose; themes of existentialism

anagnorisis

a point in the story when the main character recognizes another character’s true identity; moment of realization and critical discovery

bildungsroman

a coming of age story that revolves around growth and change in the central character; childhood —> adulthood

blank verse

metrical pattern in iambic pentameter /\/\ but no rhyme scheme

catharsis

the purging of strong emotions that is experienced by the audience

classical tragedy

dramatic story that details the downfall of a protagonist due to their tragic flaw; explores themes of freewill and fate

conceit

elaborate metaphor that creates comparisons between abstract ideas and physical objects

cosmic irony

higher power like the universe or a god orchestrates cruel actions that impact the central character’s journey; feels deliberate

doggeral tragedy

serious subjects are treated with simple, and sometimes humorous, poetic style; awkward rhymes and meters

domestic tragedy

drama that focuses on the downfall of oridnary characters, middle-class family; personal and family crisis