Play-Making: A Manual of Craftsmanship

Name: Play-Making: A Manual of Craftsmanship
Author: William Archer

By William Archer

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About This Book

A practical handbook guides aspiring dramatists through the craft of playwriting, treating selection of theme, dramatic versus undramatic material, character creation, and the routine of composition alongside stage-focused structure: point of attack, exposition, first act, tension and its suspension, preparation and obligatory scenes, peripety, probability versus coincidence, logic, and the management of secrets. It addresses methods of foreshadowing without foreclosing action, climax and anticlimax, conversions and false endings, and strategies for full closure, while concluding with notes on psychology, dialogue, and technical detail, illustrating principles with examples drawn notably from Shakespeare and Ibsen.

About the Author

William Archer

William Archer was a Scottish playwright, critic, and author known for his insightful commentary on social issues and the arts. His works often explored themes of race, religion, and the complexities of American society. Notable among his writings is "Play-Making: A Manual of Craftsmanship," which serves as a guide for aspiring playwrights, reflecting his deep engagement with theatrical practices. Archer also critically examined contemporary thought in works like "God and Mr. Wells: A Critical Examination of 'God the Invisible King.'" His contributions to literature and criticism have left a lasting impact on the discourse surrounding drama and social issues.