Hear Say Identity, Communication, and Language in the Modern Metaplay or Adventures in Playwriting
Date of Award
2005
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Humanities
First Advisor
Moore, John
Keywords
Metadrama, Metatheatre, Albee, Edward, Shepard, Sam, Play Production, Playwriting
Area of Concentration
British and American Literature
Abstract
This thesis attempts to do three things. The first is to discuss the importance of metatheatre and the conscious use of metatheatrical techniques in modem theatre. This thesis argues that metaplays, in highlighting the constructed nature of drama, confront their audience and make them think about how they perceive drama. I argue that this encourages the audience to reexamine the world around them as well. In the first chapter, I discuss how metatheatre works towards these ends in Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and Sam Shepard's Action particularly in respect to the formation of identity, the use of language, and communication between the characters as well as between the play and its audience. The second component of this thesis is the script of the play, Elvis is Dead. This play was performed at New College on March 10, 11, and 12, 2005. Elvis is Dead is my own attempt to explore the ideas that I discuss in chapter one. It also explores how media and culture in general affect identity and communication. The third component of this thesis is a discussion of the production process. While focusing slightly on theories of directing, I also discuss Brecht's influence on my production and the relationship between the production and the theoretical background for this thesis.
Recommended Citation
Holder, Emma, "Hear Say Identity, Communication, and Language in the Modern Metaplay or Adventures in Playwriting" (2005). Theses & ETDs. 3533.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/3533
Rights
This bibliographic record is available under the Creative Commons CC0 public domain dedication. The New College of Florida, as creator of this bibliographic record, has waived all rights to it worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law.