Dramatic structure

English

Definition

The framework that organizes the events of a play or story into a coherent sequence. The most common model is Freytag's Pyramid, which divides a drama into five parts: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution (denouement).

Examples

  • In Romeo and Juliet, the exposition introduces the feuding families; the climax is the deaths of the lovers
  • A mystery novel's rising action builds suspense through clues and red herrings
  • The resolution of a comedy typically ends with marriages or reconciliation
Key Fact

Freytag's Pyramid: Exposition → Rising Action → Climax → Falling Action → Denouement

Related Terms

Plot structure Narrative arc Dramatic conventions Conflict types

Study This Concept

Practice dramatic structure with free review games in these units:

English 10 Unit 3: Drama and Poetry Analysis