1. Henrik Ibsen: Father of the Modern Realistic Drama

2. Main Characteristics of Realistic Drama
1. reflects ordinary language (written in prose, not verse)
2. depicts characters and situations as they really are, without idealization or embellishment
3. Addresses controversial issues
Ibsen: role and status of women in society

3. Characteristics of Acting and Staging in Modern Realistic Drama
Actors seek to become the characters
Dialogue sounds like conversation
Scenery resembles the locale
Scenery depicts ordinary living conditions
Costumes represented status of character
Protagonist drawn from everyday life
Protagonist may be perplexed and inarticulate in the face of conflict

4. Characteristics of Acting and Staging in Modern Realistic Drama (cont
Removing the “fourth wall”
Watching a “realistic” play should be similar to looking in someone’s living room or house
The “fourth wall” is missing for us to watch the characters.

5. Modern Theater

6. Modern Theater

7. 3 Major Elements of Realistic Drama