Dramatic Devices

Dramatic devices and techniques

There is a multitude of devices and techniques used in dramatic writing. These terms can be used interchangeably, but for this article, we will call them dramatic devices.

Dramatic devices are essential tools in theatre. They serve as stand-ins for reality, enabling the audience to perceive the performance as authentic within its staged context.

Dramatic techniques, or dramatic methods, are specific strategies or methods used by playwrights and directors to tell stories on stage and create an emotional response. These techniques can involve elements of the script, like dialogue and characterisation, as well as theatrical components like lighting, sound, costuming, and set design. Effective use of these techniques can help to deepen audience engagement, create suspense, and bring a play's themes and characters to life. These techniques transmit information about characters or the plot that could not be conveyed by action alone.

Dramatic methods can also include how the themes and messages of a play are communicated through dialogue, action, symbolism, and metaphor.

Types of dramatic device

There is a multitude of conventions that can be used for different effects or purposes. Some types of dramatic devices include dramatic irony, soliloquy, aside, and paradox.

Dramatic irony

The first device we can look at is dramatic irony.

This results in heightened dramatic tension, especially in scenes that might allude to this information. Certain characters might be perceived differently by the audience than they are by other characters in the play due to unrevealed details or circumstances. Words and actions, therefore, can carry multiple meanings, making the action more interesting and exciting to watch.

Dramatic irony can be used either for comedic or dramatic effects. Audiences may laugh at the obliviousness of the characters on stage, or foresee potential tragedy.

Soliloquy

One of the ways in which dramatic irony can be achieved is through a soliloquy.

Usually, the purpose of a soliloquy is to reveal the inner monologue of a character, allowing the audience to understand their thoughts, perspectives and intentions.

The information divulged during a soliloquy may not be privy to other characters in the play, therefore adding a layer of dramatic irony to enhance later action.

Aside

Similarly, this can also be achieved using an aside.

Asides, like soliloquies, serve to reveal character information through personal thoughts that could not be shared through straightforward action.

The audience, therefore, may begin to feel involved and invested in the play, enhancing the dramatic experience.

Paradox

Another device is paradox.

Paradoxes are used in drama to attract the audience's attention. They might seem to be ridiculous statements that offer humour in obvious self-contradiction; however, they usually still retain validity.

Dramatic devices examples

Now that we have established the major dramatic devices, we can consider some examples of how they can be used to great effect.

Dramatic devices in literature

It is important to look at how great dramatists have inventively used these same conventions as part of their craft to elevate and enhance their writing.

'To be or not to be'

Perhaps the most famous playwright in history, William Shakespeare (1564-1616), expertly deployed dramatic devices in his plays, cleverly using each to create unforgettable characters, stories and action.

The most widely known soliloquy in all literature is largely agreed as Hamlet's 'To be or not to be' from Act 3, Scene 1 of the play Hamlet (1599-1601). Hamlet's speech explores his deepest thoughts, contemplating suicide and the nature of death.

What makes this soliloquy so culturally impactful is the vulnerability exhibited by the titular character, Hamlet, who shares his innermost thoughts with the audience. There is an honesty conveyed through the soliloquy that can resonate with anyone, creating a feeling of intimacy on stage, especially poignant when considering the critical position that Hamlet finds himself in.

Another dramatic device used by Shakespeare in this scene is dramatic irony. Unbeknownst to Hamlet, his treacherous uncle, King Claudius, and his advisor, Polonius, are eavesdropping in secret. The audience is aware of this and understands the critical repercussions that might occur as a result, creating a sense of foreboding and anticipation.

Asides in Othello

Shakespeare's 1603 play Othello is a play largely concerned with deception and manipulation, particularly by its antagonist, Iago.

Throughout the play, Iago speaks to the audience through various asides, underscoring his treachery and deceit.

Even from his first aside, he cements his position:

The dramatic device is quickly associated with Iago's villainy, creating in the audience a sense of dramatic irony of his true nature that is not understood by the rest of the characters.

What forms, therefore, is an inevitable fate that makes the ultimate tragedy of the play even more distressing: the audience is Iago's witness (and perhaps even corroborator) throughout, watching his plan unfold, also helpless to his evil nature.

Fig 1 - Dramatic devices are used to enhance the performance of plays.

Importance of dramatic devices

Dramatic devices are of incredible importance: with the inclusion of these conventions and techniques, playwrights can incorporate additional complexities, depth and detail into their work, making it a more enjoyable experience for audiences.

The major effect of all dramatic devices is to involve the audience, which makes the plot more immersive.

Straightforward action by itself may not be enough to emotionally involve audiences because they appear to operate from a distance. When an audience feels like they are part of the action on stage, however, the play becomes more believable and meaningful, thereby enhancing the dramatic experience.