Melodrama – Questions and Answers

11.   In which century did melodrama develop?        

Ans = Melodrama developed in the 19^th century in France

2.  Why is it called ‘melodrama’?

Ans= It is called melodrama because it is a very dominant theatre form which involves over over exaggeration hence they use music to increase impact of the performance which is why it is called melodrama because ‘melo’ means melody or music

3.Why was melodrama so popular?

Ans= Melodrama was popular because it is filled with romance, action, thrill etc. Melodrama has spectacular settings, music and exaggerated acting and great costumes. They also encouraged audience interaction which made it popular.

4. List the three (3) segments of a standard melodrama plot. What action does each segment involve?

Ans= Segments of a standard melodrama plot              

 Provocation: The initial cause for the setting action.

 Pangs: The outcome which is suffering of the innocent characters who are caught up in the evil plan.

Penalty: The last minute twist of fate where the wicked characters are punished for their evil actions.

5. What are some conflicting themes a melodrama would usually explore?

Ans= The themes are generally action, violence, romance and sentimentality.

6. Are the characters in melodrama life-like or stereotyped?

Ans= The characters are stereotyped because they were not meant to be life like they were meant have identifiable types of personalities.

7. List three (3) stock characters and describe each of their personal qualities.

Ans= The hero: brave, courageous, handsome, honest, reliable and romantic

The maiden/heroine: ladylike, innocent, demure, brave and vulnerable

The villain: evil, sly, manipulative, cunning and dishonest.

8.What is the difference between the faithful servant and a maid servant?    

Ans= A faithful servant: Provides comic relief and does dirty work for the villain. He usually discovers evidence for the villain. 

A maid servant: A female character who is lively and go flirts with the faithful servant.

9. What is an ‘aside’?

Ans= An aside is where any character speaks directly to the audience to reveal a thought or plan that is kept secret from the rest of the other characters.