THTR 1020 Chapter : Genre
Document Summary
Economic/institutional function of genres : organize the way we consume media and performance, help industry produce and market products (through standardization of the product , and distribute them (reaching specific markets) Artistic function of genres : genre unconsciously instructs us as spectators as to way something is intended to be interpreted, for example: in giving a context for conventions. Irretrievability of plot: heroes of high birth, tragic flaw victim of their own mistake, written in verse, heroes accept their fate, oedipus vs marilyn monroe. Modern tragedy: working class heroes, heroes victims of society, vernacular same way we speak everyday, don"t always accept their fate, in fact, sometimes what is most tragic is the fight they put up. Melodrama: superficial character types archetypes, clear boundaries between good and bad, similar plots, action good triumphs over evil, focus on the lessons, not identifying with the characters.
