ENG 240 Wk 4 Discussion – Challenges in Playwriting

Post a total of 3 substantive responses over 2 separate days for full participation. This includes your initial post and 2 replies to other students.

Due Thursday

Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:

In most forms of creative writing, writers are bound by a single means of communication: written language. Playwriting is different. A play relies on audio and visual elements. Scenes are designed, spaced, and illuminated in a particular way. Audiences must focus on how each scene looks on stage. Performers deliver lines with their own inflection. A play engages the senses more than any other mode of writing. Perhaps most importantly, plays are dependent on what the characters say. Monologues and dialogues are the essence of a play.

What are some challenges (in terms of how to develop plot, theme, and character) that might be unique to the playwright? What advantages does a playwright have as opposed to one who writes poems or novels? What do you see as the most important elements used in writing and presenting successful plays?

Due Monday

Reply to at least 2 of your classmates. Be constructive and professional in your responses.