After reading this weeks section of Gardiner, I feel that I have a better understanding of my disdain for reading plays. In the beginning of chapter 7 the author remarks that few people "read plays for pleasure in the same way that we might take a novel with us to the beach." (Pg. 113) The page goes on to explain methods to benefit a reader's understanding of plays. I have always had trouble visualizing a play, so this helps to explain my struggle with the genre.
The sample analysis in the end was very intriguing to me. I felt that if I could read a play with a specific analysis in mind, like Mrs. Peters' ethical journey, I could enjoy the play more. I might be able to see the play through Mrs. Peters' eyesI look forward to reading more plays in the future in order to test out my theory that a specific analysis will facilitate in my enthusiasm and understanding if reading plays.
This may sound weird, but if you need help visualizing the play as you read it, try reading it aloud, like an actor would. Add emotion. Walk around as the stage directions tell you to. Get into it. Personally, if I find myself struggling with a play, I find that to be very helpful. You should give it a try if you find yourself reading another play.
ReplyDeleteSometimes plays count as double duty and the reason I say that is because there are more elements to find meaning in. There is what the characters say vs. what the characters do. In Death of a Salesman, one of the defining characteristics of Willy Loman is the fact that he is always contradicting himself. What he says goes against what he does and sometimes he'll change up what his story is. These elements are important because if they are lost in reading, the meaning and the enjoyment of plays are lost.
ReplyDelete