This task is given by Dilip sir. The bridge course: Dryden's essay on Dramatic poesy. I wrote this blog by watching video about this topic.
➡️ Discuss any differences you observe between Aristotle's definition of Tragedy and Dryden's definition ofplay
✴️Aristotle's definition of tragedy and dryden's definition of play have some key differences:
🔷Aristotle's definition of tragedy:
🔹 Aristotle defined tragedy as a form of drama that portrays the downfall of a noble character due to a tragic flow, leading to a catharsis of emotions in the audience.
🔹 Tragedy, according to Aristotle, involves a serious and complex plot that evokes feelings of pity and fear in the audience.
🔹 Aristotle emphasized the importance of unity of action, time and place in tragedy,to create a cohesleve and impactful dramatic experience.
🔷 Dryden's definition of play:
🔹 Dryden's definition of play is border and less specific than Aristotle definition of Tragedy.
🔹 Dryden viewed plays as work of drama that encompass various genres, including comedy,tragedy and tragicomedy among others.
🔹 Unlike Aristotle's focus on the tragic hero and catharsis, Dryden's definition of play encompasses a winder range of dramatic forms and styles, reflecting the diversity of theatrical expression.
➡️ If you were to express your personal preference, would you side with the Ancients or the Moderns? Provide reasons for your choice.
I would side with the Moderns. While the Ancients laid the foundation for many literary and philosophical concepts, I appreciate the innovative and progressive nature of the Moderns. The Moderns have pushed boundaries, challenged traditional norms, and explored new ideas, leading to diverse and dynamic forms of expression in literature, art, and philosophy. Their willingness to experiment, adapt, and evolve resonates with my inclination towards embracing change, creativity, and individuality.
➡️Evaluate whether the arguments presented in favor of French plays and against English plays are appropriate. For example, consider the portrayal of death, duel fights with blunted swords, the representation of large armies by a few actors, the mingling of mirth and serious tones, and the use of multiple plots.
The arguments in favor of French plays and against English plays regarding the portrayal of death, duel fights with blunted swords, representation of large armies by a few actors, mingling of mirth and serious tones, and the use of multiple plots can be evaluated based on their appropriateness in the context of dramatic representation.
French plays often emphasize a more refined and stylized approach to portraying death, utilizing symbolic gestures and poetic language to convey the gravity of such moments. In contrast, English plays may opt for a more direct and realistic depiction of death, aiming to evoke a visceral reaction from the audience. Both approaches have their merits, with French plays focusing on the emotional and intellectual aspects of death, while English plays aim for a raw and immediate impact.
The representation of large armies by a few actors in French plays can be seen as a creative and efficient way to convey the scale of battles while focusing on individual characters' experiences and emotions. In contrast, English plays may opt for a more realistic portrayal of battles with a larger cast, aiming to create a sense of chaos and spectacle on stage. Both methods have their strengths in evoking the grandeur and intensity of warfare within the dramatic context.
The mingling of mirth and serious tones in French plays allows for a nuanced exploration of human emotions and experiences, blending humor with poignant moments to create a rich and multifaceted narrative. English plays may also incorporate a mix of tones to engage the audience and provide a diverse range of emotional experiences. Both approaches can be effective in capturing the complexities and contradictions of human nature within the dramatic framework.
English plays may opt for a more straightforward and linear narrative structure, focusing on the development of central characters and conflicts. Both approaches have their advantages in creating depth and complexity within the dramatic framework, catering to different storytelling preferences and audience expectations.
➡️ State your preference for poetic or prosaic dialogues in a play and explain your reasoning.
I would lean towards poetic dialogues in a play. Poetic language has a unique ability to evoke emotions, create vivid imagery, and enhance the overall aesthetic and artistic quality of the dialogue. Poetic dialogues can elevate the language of the play, adding depth, beauty, and a lyrical quality that can captivate the audience and immerse them in the world of the story. The richness of language and the artistry of poetry can bring a sense of enchatment and magic to the theatrical experience, making it more memorable and engaging for both the performance and the audience.