How to Write a Dramaturgy Analysis

Writing a dramaturgical analysis involves delving deep into the text of a play, finding themes and implications within its structure and history. These essays are read by performers of the play, directors, set designers and students as a guide for an in-depth look at the true intentions of a play. A few basic areas on which to focus a dramaturgy essay include character analysis, thematic content and time period consideration. These simple steps will help make your work as a dramaturge much more concise and relevant.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Consider the period setting of the play, and then research the events of the world during that time period. For example, if you are analyzing a play that takes place during the great depression, you will need to research and understand the current events and everyday human concerns of that period in order to write a dramaturgical analysis. The time setting is the most important part of dissecting the inner-workings of a play. Characters are defined by their environments, just as we as human beings are as well. So understanding world events of a play's time period is essential in order to truly grasp the intended setting. When writing your analysis, include not only the broad events of the period, but also smaller scale concerns that would have affected the characters in the play at that time. These smaller, more personal glimpses into life during the period will actually prove to be the most beneficial to someone reading your analysis.

2. Analyze each character, answering the following questions: Who is the character? How is the character related to the other characters in the play? What is the character's position/job in the world? What does the character want? How does the character go about achieving what he or she wants? What is the ending result in the play for the character? These are the absolute essentials for a dramaturgical analysis. But more in-depth analysis is necessary for more central characters of the play. The importance of a character's role in the play should determine the extent to which their character is dissected. Search for more and more detail, answering as many questions as possible about the function, environment and methods of each and every character in the play.

3. Analyze the playwright. Look into the background and education of the playwright. Not only will this provide insight on the author's intentions and goals in writing the play, it will help you define the overall thematic elements of the play. While it is not necessary to provide a thorough biography of the playwright's entire life in a dramaturgical analysis, you will need to expound briefly on the history of the author per its relevance to the play.

4. Dissect the thematic elements of the play. Look for a broad, singular overall theme topic. For example, is the play really about love or sacrifice or family loyalty? Define this overall theme as the main intention of the play. From there, identify sub-themes which tie in with the overall intentions of the play. Look for contradictory thematic elements as well, as these are often used to create a diversity of opinion. Write a complete analysis of all the themes you are able to identify in the play. Include as many specifics as possible as to how the themes are demonstrated within the context of the play.

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