ENGL1011_Unit 5 : Comedy in Drama 낱말 카드 | Quizlet

What does "tragodia" and "komodia" mean in ancient Greek, and how do these terms relate to the worship of Dionysus?

"Tragodia" means "goat-song," referring to hymns celebrating Dionysus, symbolizing sacrifice and death associated with winter. "Komodia" means "phallic songs" or revels, also linked to Dionysus, symbolizing rebirth, festivity, and the essence of spring.

How do tragic goat-songs and comic revels reflect the opposing energies associated with Dionysus?

Tragic goat-songs express sacrifice and death (winter), while comic revels represent phallic revelry, feasting, and carnival, associated with spring and renewal. Both are linked to Dionysus, reflecting the cycle of death and rebirth.

What are the origins of drama according to Aristotle, and how do they relate to Dionysian ceremonies?

Drama originated from ancient seasonal rituals celebrating Dionysus, involving contests and combats between the old and new Dionysus, reflecting the natural cycle. Improvisations in these ceremonials gradually evolved into the dramatic forms known to Aristotle.

What is the "green world" in comedy as described in relation to Constance Ledbelly's journey in "Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)"?

The "green world" in comedy represents a space of rebirth, potential, and transformation, where Constance seeks her own treasure and wisdom. It signifies a triumph over winter's deadness, celebrating life's energies and the possibility of renewal and love.

Describe the symbolic significance of Constance Ledbelly's quest in "Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)."

Constance's quest symbolizes a search for self-knowledge and validation, paralleling the hero's quest in romances. Her journey involves deciphering mysteries and seeking a symbolic treasure, reflecting a personal transformation and rebirth.

What is the definition of "burlesque" and its primary purpose?

Burlesque is defined as "an incongruous imitation," imitating the style or subject matter of a serious work or genre but creating humor through disparity between the form and content. While often just for fun, it is typically a form of satire targeting the work or genre being imitated or the incongruously applied subject matter.

How do "burlesque," "parody," and "travesty" differ in literary terms?

"Burlesque" is the generic term, while "parody" and "travesty" specify types of burlesque. Parody mimics the serious manner of a specific work or style, applying it to a trivial subject. Travesty treats a lofty subject in a grotesquely undignified style.

What are the two levels of burlesque, and what does each represent?

High burlesque: Uses a dignified style to treat a trivial subject (e.g., mock epic).

Low burlesque: Applies a lowly style to a high subject, often using colloquial language to describe serious themes (e.g., Hudibrastic).

What is a parody, and can you give an example?

A parody imitates the style of a serious work, author, or genre, but deflates it by applying the style to an incongruously trivial subject. Example: Hartley Coleridge's parody of Wordsworth's "She Dwelt among the Untrodden Ways," which humorously applies high poetic style to a lesser subject.

What distinguishes a mock epic or mock-heroic poem in burlesque?

A mock epic or mock-heroic poem parodies the epic genre by adopting its grand style and form to narrate trivial events, enhancing the comedic effect by juxtaposing grandeur with triviality, as seen in Alexander Pope's "The Rape of the Lock."

Define "travesty" in the context of burlesque and provide an example.

A travesty mocks a serious work by treating it in a grotesquely undignified manner. Example: "Across the Street and Into the Bar," a travesty of Hemingway's "Across the River and Into the Trees," uses lowbrow language to describe a lofty subject.

What is a "Hudibrastic" poem and its characteristics?

A Hudibrastic poem is named after Samuel Butler's "Hudibras," which uses doggerel verses and a colloquial idiom to satirize the chivalric romance. It features mundane and humiliating misadventures of a knight, highlighting the disparity between the knight's lofty aspirations and his ignoble experiences.

What role does the lampoon play in burlesque?

A lampoon is a short satirical piece that ridicules a particular person by exaggerating physical or personality traits for comic effect, similar to a caricature in visual art. It is often embedded in larger works to add humor and critique.

How does "high burlesque" differ from "low burlesque" in its application of style to subject?

High burlesque applies a high, dignified style to a low, trivial subject, enhancing the comic effect by the mismatch. Low burlesque, conversely, uses a low, undignified style to treat a high, serious subject, often resulting in a grotesque and humorous effect.

What is the significance of "mock-heroic" and how is it used in burlesque?

Mock-heroic is a form of high burlesque that satirizes the epic form by applying its ceremonious style to trivial subjects. This form mocks the classical grandeur of epics by depicting petty squabbles or mundane events with exaggerated importance, such as in "The Rape of the Lock" by Alexander Pope.

Give an example of a modern parody and describe its thematic focus.

A modern example of parody is the novel "Possession" by A.S. Byatt, which includes parodies of Victorian poetry and prose as well as academic writings. It uses the serious literary form to comment on and satirize romantic and scholarly obsessions of the Victorian era.

Describe the thematic application of burlesque in John Gay's "Beggar's Opera."

"Beggar's Opera" is a high burlesque of Italian opera, using its dignified formulas to depict a company of beggars and thieves, thus critiquing the social and moral dispositions of both the upper class and the criminal underworld through incongruous imitation.

What is the basic definition of a "comedy" in literary terms?

A comedy is a fictional work where the content is selected to interest and amuse, with characters and situations that engage us lightly rather than deeply. Disasters are generally avoided, and the narrative typically concludes happily for the protagonists.

Describe the characteristics of a "romantic comedy."

A romantic comedy typically features a central love affair that encounters obstacles but ultimately overcomes them to end happily. Elements include a charming heroine, sometimes in disguise, and a movement from a normal world to a "green world" where conflicts resolve, often concluding with a celebratory social ritual like a wedding.

What is "satiric comedy" and who were its early masters?

Satiric comedy uses humor to ridicule political, philosophical, or literary subjects by exposing deviations from social norms. Early masters include Aristophanes, who satirized ancient Athenian society, and Ben Jonson, whose plays like "Volpone" critique greed and folly.

What defines the "comedy of manners" and its historical development?

The comedy of manners focuses on the interactions and intrigues of sophisticated upper-class society, relying on witty dialogue and social decorum violations for humor. Developed from Greek and Roman comedies, it was polished during the English Restoration and includes works by Molière, Congreve, and Wycherley.

Explain the concept and evolution of "farce" in comedy.

Farce aims to provoke hearty, uncomplicated laughter through exaggerated characters, improbable situations, and often physical humor and sexual innuendo. It evolved from medieval plays and commedia dell'arte to modern cinema and TV, exemplified by Chaplin, the Marx Brothers, and situation comedies.

Distinguish between "high comedy" and "low comedy."

High comedy, or intellectual comedy, evokes thoughtful laughter from detached spectators at human follies and incongruities, often in a witty verbal contest. Low comedy appeals to a broader base with physical humor, slapstick, and simple jokes, frequently seen in farce.

What are the primary themes and settings of romantic comedy in Shakespeare's works?

Shakespeare's romantic comedies often feature a transition from a world of conflict (normal world) to a mystical "green world" where problems dissolve and reconciliation occurs, exemplified by "As You Like It" and "A Midsummer Night's Dream." These plays typically conclude with a union or celebration, reflecting ancient rituals of spring triumphing over winter.

How does satiric comedy differ from other comedic forms in its portrayal of societal norms?

Satiric comedy specifically targets societal norms, political policies, or philosophical doctrines, ridiculing deviations from accepted standards through exaggerated, humorous critique. This form aims to provoke thought and reflection on societal values and behaviors, often with a corrective intent.

What role does witty dialogue play in the comedy of manners?

In the comedy of manners, witty dialogue is crucial, often taking the form of repartee that acts like a verbal fencing match. This dialogue highlights the intelligence and charm of characters while satirizing societal norms and behaviors, central to the humor and appeal of this genre.

Explain the significance of farce in the history of comedy and provide examples of its use in modern media.

Farce plays a significant role in comedic history by using exaggerated characters and ludicrous situations to provoke laughter. Modern examples include TV sitcoms and films that employ slapstick, physical humor, and improbable scenarios for comedic effect, such as the works of Monty Python and "Charley's Aunt."

What distinguishes the humor in high comedy from that in low comedy?

High comedy relies on intellectual wit and subtle humor that satirizes the pretentiousness and follies of human behavior, requiring a degree of reflection and detachment. Low comedy, on the other hand, appeals through straightforward, often physical humor that elicits immediate and robust laughter.

Discuss the revival and significance of the comedy of manners in contemporary settings.

The comedy of manners was revived in the late 19th and 20th centuries by playwrights like Oscar Wilde and Noel Coward, who adapted its focus on witty dialogue and social intrigue to reflect contemporary societal norms. This genre remains relevant as it mirrors and critiques modern social behaviors and relationships through sharp humor.

These additional flashcards aim to enrich your understanding of the diverse styles and purposes within the genre of comedy, helping you to analyze and appreciate its complexities and cultural implications.

What is the definition of "satire" and its main purpose?

Satire is the literary art of diminishing a subject by making it ridiculous, evoking attitudes of amusement, contempt, scorn, or indignation. It uses laughter as a weapon, targeting a butt that exists outside the work, such as an individual, class, institution, or even the human race.

How does satire differ from comedy?

While comedy aims primarily to evoke laughter for its own sake, satire uses laughter as a tool to deride or criticize its target, focusing on human vice and folly as correctable through ridicule.

What are the two main types of formal satire?

Horatian Satire: Features a witty, urbane speaker who gently ridicules human folly with humor, aiming to evoke a wry smile rather than indignation.

Juvenalian Satire: Features a serious moralist who uses strong, often indignant language to criticize severe vices and errors, aiming to provoke moral indignation or sadness.

Explain the concept of "indirect satire" and give examples.

Indirect satire uses fictional narratives where characters make themselves ridiculous through their actions, opinions, or situations. Examples include Swift's "Gulliver's Travels" and Voltaire's "Candide," where folly is exposed through the absurdities the characters encounter.

What is Menippean satire?

Menippean satire targets intellectual attitudes and behaviors through a loosely structured narrative filled with dialogues and debates. Examples include Rabelais' "Gargantua and Pantagruel" and Huxley's "Point Counter Point," which ridicule various philosophies and professional attitudes.

Discuss the use of satire in modern media.

Modern satire extends to films, television, and novels, using humor to critique social norms, political policies, and human behaviors. Examples include films by Charlie Chaplin and the novels of Joseph Heller and Kurt Vonnegut, which explore themes of societal dysfunction and absurdity.

What role does the satiric persona play in formal satire?

In formal satire, the satiric persona, who narrates in the first person, either addresses the reader directly or a character within the work known as the adversarius. This persona may adopt a tone of amusement (Horatian) or serious critique (Juvenalian) to influence the reader's perception of the subject being satirized.

What are some literary devices commonly used in satire?

Satire often employs irony, exaggeration, parody, and juxtaposition to expose and criticize folly or corruption. These devices help to enhance the humorous and critical impact of the satire, making the subject appear absurd or contemptible.

How does satire function as a corrective tool according to historical satirists?

Historical satirists like Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift justified satire as a corrective tool that targets human vices and follies, aiming to shame individuals or society into improvement. The intent is often to ridicule failings that are considered corrigible, sparing personal afflictions not under one's control.

Describe the difference between Horatian and Juvenalian satire with examples.

Horatian satire is light-hearted and amused, aiming to provoke a smile (e.g., Alexander Pope's "Moral Essays"). Juvenalian satire is more severe, evoking contempt or moral indignation through its critique of serious social vices (e.g., Samuel Johnson's "London").

What is the significance of satire in contemporary society?

In contemporary society, satire serves as a powerful form of social and political commentary, offering a way to critique norms, expose hypocrisy, and provoke discussion. It remains relevant in media like television, film, and literature, where it challenges audiences to reflect critically on societal issues.

Explain the historical context and importance of the Restoration and eighteenth century in the development of English satire.

The Restoration and eighteenth century were pivotal for English satire, with figures like John Dryden, Alexander Pope, and Jonathan Swift using satire to critique and influence both political and social spheres. This period is notable for its sharp wit and the development of satire as a distinct literary genre.

What is the historical evolution of the term "wit"?

Historically, "wit" referred to mental sharpness and inventiveness. It evolved to denote literary ingenuity and the ability to create brilliant, surprising figures of speech, often associated with metaphysical poetry. By the eighteenth century, it distinguished between "true wit," involving clever rephrasing of universal truths, and the less esteemed "false wit."

How is "wit" commonly understood in contemporary literature?

In contemporary terms, "wit" is a form of verbal expression that is brief, clever, and designed to produce a shock of comic surprise. This often results from an unexpected yet satisfying connection or distinction between ideas or words, such as in epigrams.

What is the difference between "wit" and "humor" in literary contexts?

While both wit and humor are forms of the comic, wit is intentional and crafted to amuse through cleverness and brevity, often surprising the audience. Humor can be unintentional from the speaker's perspective, broader, and not necessarily structured as neatly as wit.

Define "repartee" and provide a literary example.

"Repartee" is a quick, witty conversation where each participant attempts to outdo the other in cleverness, similar to a fencing match of words. An example is the exchange between Disraeli and Gladstone, where each countered the other's insult with a sharper comeback.

What distinguishes "humor" in terms of personality and literary expression?

Historically linked to the theory of four bodily humors, "humor" in literature refers to comic expressions, behaviors, or appearances that may not be intentionally funny to the speaker. It encompasses a broader range than wit, including visual comedy and situational humor.

Explain the concept of "tendency wit" and "tendency comedy."

"Tendency wit" is aggressive and derogatory, using humor to mock a specific target, often with malice. "Tendency comedy" similarly uses laughter as a weapon to deride someone, involving contempt or ridicule. Both are key tools in satire, which aims to criticize through derision.

How is humor different from the comic in its emotional impact?

Humor typically evokes sympathetic laughter and is seen as "harmless," focusing on the enjoyment of the comic aspect without intending harm. In contrast, other forms of the comic, like "tendency comedy," may use humor to ridicule or demean, serving more pointed social or critical purposes.

What are the key characteristics of "true wit" according to neoclassical critics like Alexander Pope?

"True wit" is defined by neoclassical critics as a clever expression of universal truths in a striking and memorable way. Alexander Pope famously described it as "What oft was thought, but ne'er so well expressed," emphasizing both originality and eloquence.

How does Mae West's comment exemplify "harmless wit"?

Mae West's comment, "Too much of a good thing can be—wonderful," is an example of "harmless wit," which surprises and delights without malice. It plays with expectations humorously and ends in a benign, enjoyable twist.

What psychological theory of humor did Sigmund Freud propose?

Freud distinguished between "harmless wit" and "tendency wit." Harmless wit evokes laughter without malice, while tendency wit is aggressive and mocks a specific target. This theory emphasizes the dual role of wit in both entertaining and critiquing social behaviors.

Describe the role of "repartee" in Restoration comedies.

Restoration comedies often featured "repartee," a rapid and witty dialogue that showcases a verbal duel between characters, reflecting their social and intellectual prowess. An example is the exchange between Mirabel and Millamant in William Congreve's "The Way of the World."

What differentiates humor from wit in terms of speaker intention and form?

Humor may not be intended by the speaker to be comic and typically lacks the concise, epigrammatic form of wit. For example, the Nurse in "Romeo and Juliet" speaks humorously without intending to amuse, in contrast to deliberately crafted witty remarks.

How is humor broader than wit in terms of expression?

Humor encompasses a wide range of comic expressions, including visual and situational comedy, not just verbal. It can be found in behaviors, appearances, and even wordless forms, such as cartoons, unlike wit which is confined to spoken or written language.

Explain "tendency comedy" and its role in satire.

"Tendency comedy" uses comic elements to ridicule and criticize, often with an element of contempt or malice. It is used in satire to attack and expose the follies and vices of its targets, serving as a corrective tool through derisive laughter.

What are the key literary terms essential to understanding comedy in Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)?

Burlesque: An incongruous imitation of a serious work or genre for comic effect.

Comedy: A genre designed to amuse, often resolving conflicts happily.

Satire: A literary form that ridicules human vices and institutions, often to provoke change.

Wit, Humor, and the Comic: Techniques that provoke laughter, including wordplay, irony, and absurdity.

Also important: farce, high comedy, low comedy, and parody.

What is Old Comedy, and how does it differ from other comedic forms?

Old Comedy, as defined by Aristotle, is highly satirical and carnivalesque. It:

Mocks revered figures, gods, politics, literature, and society.

Features a prologue, a chorus, and ends in a komos (a feast with revelry).

Uses crude humor, bawdy gestures, and physical comedy.

Celebrates the temporary suspension of social order, allowing for misrule.

What are some elements of Old Comedy present in Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)?

Satirical treatment of academia, gender roles, and Shakespearean tragedies.

Physical comedy and exaggerated gestures, such as bawdy wordplay and slapstick.

Subversion of traditional character roles, especially through Constance's transformation.

What is New Comedy, and how does Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) reflect its structure?

New Comedy focuses on love, courtship, and the obstacles lovers face. In MacDonald’s play:

Constance embarks on a quest for self-knowledge, rather than traditional romance.

Instead of ending in marriage, the play concludes with a "marriage of true minds", emphasizing feminist themes.

The work satirizes and deconstructs traditional notions of love and marriage, especially in Shakespearean tragedies.

What is recreational laughter, and how does it function in comedy?

Laughter that renews and reinvigorates rather than merely ridicules.

Opposite of tragic catharsis; instead of purging pity and fear, it provides relief and joy.

Echoes the folk belief that “laughter is the best medicine.”

Democritus described humans as "homo ludens" (the laughing animal) rather than "homo sapiens".

What is corrective laughter, and how does it differ from recreational laughter?

Corrective laughter: Aims to reform social behavior by highlighting flaws in individuals or institutions.

Recreational laughter: Exists for pleasure, relieving stress and providing joy.

Satire often uses corrective laughter, while light comedy employs recreational laughter.

What is Comedy of Manners, and how does it relate to Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)?

A form of high comedy that satirizes social customs, relationships, and decorum.

Often includes witty conversations, repartee, and clever criticism of societal norms.

MacDonald’s play mocks love, romance, and idealized relationships, reflecting this tradition.

What is the significance of Castiglione's Book of the Courtier in the discussion of comedy?

A 15th-century guidebook on social etiquette and courtly behavior.

Shows how laughter and wit can enhance social interactions.

Highlights the art of conversation as a comedic and intellectual tool.

Suggests that well-timed humor can elevate one's status and charm others.

How does Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) use parody to create humor?

Parodies Shakespearean tragedies, turning their dramatic moments into comedic ones.

Exaggerates characters’ emotions and reactions for comic effect.

Uses unexpected reversals, such as Constance gaining power instead of being a tragic heroine.

What role does gender inversion play in the comedy of Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)?

The play reverses traditional gender roles, making women the active participants.

Mocks patriarchal structures in Shakespearean tragedies.

Challenges expectations of romance, emphasizing self-discovery over marriage.

(Study Task) List four or five contemporary targets of satire or comic wit in Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet).

Academia: The pretentiousness and limitations of scholarly research.

Gender roles: The absurdity of traditional female passivity.

Romantic ideals: Overly dramatic love tropes from Shakespearean tragedies.

Shakespearean authority: The idea that Shakespeare’s tragedies are untouchable.

Patriarchy: Male figures like Claude Night as mockable authority figures.

(Study Task) Identify three examples of low humor in Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) that reflect Old Comedy.

Bawdy wordplay: Sexual innuendos in dialogue.

Physical comedy: Characters engaging in exaggerated gestures, such as roughhousing or over-the-top emotional breakdowns.

Gender confusion humor: Cross-dressing, mistaken identities, and absurd romantic entanglements.

Front:How does recreational laughter compare to corrective laughter in political and social satire?

Back:

Recreational laughter amuses without attacking its subject.

Corrective laughter ridicules with the aim of reforming behavior or institutions.

Political satire (such as Jon Stewart or The Onion) often blends both.

Front:How does Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) blend Old and New Comedy?

Back:

Old Comedy elements: Satirical attacks on academia, patriarchy, and Shakespearean authority.

New Comedy elements: Focus on personal transformation rather than romantic fulfillment.

Modern feminist twist: Subverts traditional happy endings by celebrating self-realization instead of marriage.

Comedy plot-line

Crying Mask of Greek Tragedy and Laughing Mask of Greek Comedy

How are comedy and tragedy structurally similar?

Both involve a protagonist’s journey from ignorance to knowledge.

Both feature scenes of reversal, discovery, and recognition.

The protagonist undergoes a major turning point that reshapes their understanding of themselves and the world.

How does comedy structurally differ from tragedy?

In tragedy, the protagonist's movement from ignorance to knowledge is agonizing, leading to suffering or death.

In comedy, this movement is positive, leading to happiness, resolution, or reconciliation.

The comic plot follows an inverted arc compared to the tragic plot (a rising curve instead of a downward descent).

What is the function of reversal in comedy?

Reversal marks the turning point in a protagonist’s journey.

In comedy, this reversal shifts the protagonist from misery or frustration to happiness and resolution.

It often involves a misunderstanding or a mistaken identity being resolved.

How does the point of reversal in Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) compare to Othello?

In Othello, the reversal (climax) happens in Act III, scene iii, at the midpoint, when Othello fully believes Iago’s lies.

In Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet), the reversal happens much earlier, shifting Constance from her mundane life into a fantastical world.

(Study Task) Where is the point of reversal in Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)?

The reversal occurs when Constance is transported into the world of Shakespeare’s plays.

This turns her life upside down and shifts her role from passive academic to active participant.

Unlike Othello, the reversal happens early, setting up comedic events instead of tragic consequences.

Why does the reversal in Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) happen so much earlier than in a tragedy?

Early reversal allows for extended comedic exploration of mistaken identities, gender roles, and literary satire.

Creates a sense of playfulness and absurdity rather than tension and impending doom.

Encourages comic misunderstanding and eventual self-discovery rather than tragic downfall.

What impact does MacDonald’s early reversal have on the play’s comic effect?

Faster comedic pacing: The play dives into humor and parody early.

More time for mistaken identities, absurd interactions, and witty dialogue.

Maintains a light-hearted tone, reinforcing the theme of self-discovery through humor.

How does the comic arc resemble the structure of Greek comedy and tragedy?

Tragic plot: Downward trajectory → Ignorance leads to suffering.

Comic plot: Upward trajectory → Ignorance leads to insight and happiness.

Greek masks symbolize this:Tragic mask → Downturned mouth.Comic mask → Upturned mouth.

What role does discovery and recognition play in comedy?

Discovery (Anagnorisis): The moment when the protagonist realizes the truth about themselves or their situation.

Comic recognition leads to resolution, whereas tragic recognition often leads to despair.

In Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet), Constance discovers her own strength and independence.

What is the final resolution in Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)?

Unlike traditional romantic comedy, the play does not end in marriage.

Instead, Constance achieves a "marriage of true minds", symbolizing self-knowledge and intellectual empowerment.

The play mocks traditional love plots while offering a new kind of fulfillment.

Why does the comic point of reversal happen at the protagonist’s lowest point?

In tragedy: The protagonist’s lowest point leads to downfall.

In comedy: The protagonist’s lowest point is a turning point, leading to humor and eventual resolution.

Comic recognition brings joy, whereas tragic recognition brings suffering.

How does Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) subvert the romantic comedy structure?

Instead of a traditional marriage ending, the play ends with intellectual fulfillment.

Challenges gender norms: Constance rewrites the female role in literature.

Parodies Shakespearean romance, questioning the notion of "true love".

How do character types in comedy correspond to those in tragedy?

Comedy and tragedy share archetypal character roles, but their outcomes differ.

The Chorus in MacDonald’s play mirrors the Greek chorus, despite his comedic cigarette-smoking.

Like tragedy, comedy features a protagonist and an antagonist, but the resolution is positive rather than disastrous.

Who are the three possible antagonists in Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)?

Ramona: Constance’s academic rival and Claude Night’s romantic choice.

Professor Claude Night: A manipulative exploiter of Constance’s talents.

Constance herself: Her self-doubt, timidity, and gullibility act as her own worst enemy.

How is Constance her own antagonist in the play?

Her "Mouse" persona represents her self-doubt and passivity.

She shares gullibility with characters like Roderigo, Cassio, and Othello.

She must overcome internal obstacles to achieve self-knowledge and independence.

How does Claude Night function as a fairy tale villain?

He enchants Constance, keeping her under his influence.

He represents the "Demon Night," a dark Prince Charming who manipulates her.

He exploits her intelligence and effort to win tenure while she remains overlooked.

What fairy tale elements appear in Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)?

Enchantment and a "curse": Constance is trapped under Claude Night’s manipulation.

The hero’s journey: She embarks on a quest for knowledge and self-discovery.

The missing treasure: The true prize is not external but her own self-worth.

How does MacDonald give fairy tale elements a feminist twist?

No prince rescues Constance—she must save herself.

Challenges traditional romance: Love is not the goal; self-realization is.

Becoming the author of her own life: She rewrites her role rather than conforming to old narratives.

How does Constance’s psychological conflict shape the plot?

Her journey is internal, reflecting self-doubt vs. self-discovery.

The antagonist "The Mouse" symbolizes her own inhibitions.

The "treasure-hard-to-find" is her true self, not external validation.

What does "becoming her own ruler" mean for Constance?

Like a fairy tale prince claiming his kingdom, she must claim her own autonomy.

To rule herself, she must stop seeking approval from others.

"Authoring her own life" means embracing her own narrative, not someone else's

What is the significance of Constance’s name?

"Constance" suggests steadfastness and hidden strength.

"Ledbelly" evokes weight or burden, symbolizing her past self-doubt.

Her growth involves shedding her burdens and standing firm in her own power.

How does Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) subvert traditional comedy endings?

Traditional comedies end in marriage and social reintegration.

MacDonald’s play ends with self-realization, not romance.

Constance does not marry but "marries" her true mind and purpose.

What role does archetypal storytelling play in Constance’s journey?

Constance’s journey follows the classic hero’s journey but reinterprets it.

Instead of seeking a love interest or external treasure, she seeks herself.

The archetypal fairy tale quest is transformed into a modern feminist narrative.

How do the Shakespearean characters in Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) reflect Constance’s inner world?

They are figments of her own imagination, representing different aspects of herself.

Desdemona embodies violence and fearlessness, aligning with Constance’s hidden assertiveness.

Juliet represents sensuality and romantic impulsiveness, traits Constance represses.

(Viewing Task) What elements make Constance’s recreation of Othello and Iago humorous?

Over-the-top delivery of lines.

Exaggerated expressions and body language.

Comedic misinterpretations of Shakespearean dialogue.

How does MacDonald’s Desdemona differ from Shakespeare’s?

She is not passive but an Amazonian warrior, eager to fight.

She enjoys violence and horror stories.

Constance argues Shakespeare "watered down" her original character.

How does MacDonald’s Juliet differ from Shakespeare’s?

She is excessively sensual and flirtatious, taking teenage impulsiveness to an extreme.

Instead of a tragic, idealized lover, she becomes a comedic figure of uncontrolled desire.

She embodies the archetype of Venus, goddess of love.

What is Constance’s theory about the Wise Fool in Shakespeare’s tragedies?

Constance believes a Wise Fool was removed from Othello and Romeo and Juliet.

A Fool’s intervention would have prevented tragic misunderstandings.

She seeks the Gustav Manuscript, which she thinks proves this theory.

How does Constance’s journey involve self-reconciliation?

Desdemona and Juliet represent unintegrated aspects of her own personality.

She must recognize and accept these traits to become whole.

The play equates wholeness with happiness and self-acceptance.