Book

Ball, David (David A.), 1942-

Backwards and forwards : a technical manual for reading plays / David Ball.

Carbondale : Southern Illinois University Press, ©1983.

viii, 96 pages ; 22 cm

Using Hamlet as illustration, the author provides the tools for students and practitioners to use as they investigate plot, character, theme, exposition, imagery, motivation/obstacle/conflict, theatricality, and the other crucial parts of the superstructure of a play.

Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616. Hamlet.

Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616 -- Technique.

Drama -- Technique.

Theater -- Production and direction.

Includes bibliographical references.

Also issued online.

Foreword -- Introduction -- Part 1: Shape. What happens that makes something else happen? ; And what happens next? ; But do it backwards ; Stasis and intrusion ; Obstacle, conflict ; Ignorance is bliss ; Things theatrical -- Part 2: Methods. Exposition ; Forwards : hungry for next ; Missing persons (character) ; Image ; Theme -- Part 3: Tricks of the trade. Background information ; Trusting the playwright ; Families ; Generalities : mood, atmosphere ; The unique factor ; Changing eras ; Climax ; Beginnings/endings ; Rereading ; What next?

Contributor biographical information

Publisher description

82019333

0809311100

9780809311101

8952797

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273361

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808.2 Ball