Five-part Dramatic Structure To accompany a study of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet

EXPOSITION or INTRODUCTION ACT I EXPOSITION or INTRODUCTION - establishes tone & setting - introduces the main characters - introduces previous events necessary to understanding - introduces the main CONFLICT or problem

PROTAGONIST - the main character; the one who "drives" the story   PROTAGONIST - the main character; the one who "drives" the story ANTAGONIST - causes obstacles for the protagonist    

RISING ACTION or COMPLICATIONS II RISING ACTION or COMPLICATIONS - a series of complications for the protagonist, flowing out of the main conflict

CRISIS or TURNING POINT ACT III - moment of choice for the protagonist - forces of conflict come together - situation improves or deteriorates - produces falling action - not necessarily the emotional peak of the play

AC T IV FALLING ACTION - presents the incidents resulting from the decision at the turning point - emphasizes the tragedy's destructive forces - may include possible salvation as well as comedy - maintains suspense, relieves tension as catastrophe approaches

RESOLUTION or DENOUEMENT CATASTROPHE AND CLIMAX ACT V RESOLUTION or DENOUEMENT - climax - emotional peak - includes the tragedy's catastrophe of the hero's and other's deaths - conclusion of the play and unraveling of the plot

Activity Divide the class in groups. Fill in 1 box in groups, then reconvene as class and put together all boxes.