Module 4: Structure of a dramatic work
4.3. Dialogs

A dialog is a conversation between characters presented in text form. It can be a monologue (one character talking to himself) or a conversation between two or more characters. Dialogs can have different goals, including transmitting information, developing the plot, characterization of characters, and thematic saturation.

Dialogues serve as an important tool for plot development in drama. They allow characters to exchange information and ideas, which helps the viewer or reader understand what is happening in the work. Dialogues can also include elements of conflict, which adds momentum and tension to the story.

Example: In William Shakespeare's drama Hamlet, the dialogues between Hamlet and Claudius serve as a key means to develop the plot and reveal the conflict between them.

Dialogs also play an important role in characterization. They allow you to show what values, character traits, and motivations your characters have. Through dialogues, we learn what views they have on the world and how they relate to other characters.

Example: In Moliere's comedy Tartuffe, dialogues between the main character Tartuffe and other characters help to show his hypocrisy and desire to manipulate others.

Dialogues can also be used to express thematic ideas in dramaturgy. They allow the author to discuss complex topics such as morality, ethics, politics, and religion through the characters and their conversations.

Example: In Fyodor Dostoevsky's drama Crime and Punishment, dialogues between Raskolnikov and Svidrigailov raise questions about morality and conscience.

Dialogs also serve as a means of stylizing and creating a special language for characters. Each character has their own unique voice and communication style, which makes them more unique.

Dialogues not only develop the plot, but also characterize the characters, express thematic ideas and create a stylized language. Dialogues help to make a dramatic work more lively and fascinating for the audience or readers. Without them, drama would lose many of its qualities and depth.

Also, each dialog has its own style and rhythm. The style of dialogue in drama is the way characters speak, and the tone and manner of communication they use. Here are some key elements of the dialog style:

1.       Character Voice: Each character must have a unique voice. This means that characters should differ in vocabulary, phrase structure, intonation, and communication style. For example, consider your character's age, education, profession, and character.

2.     Dialogical characteristics: Dialogs should reflect the characters ' personalities. For example, a character with an introverted personality may use a more reserved and reserved communication style, while an extrovert may be more emotional and expressive.

3.     Dialog Goal: Determine the goal of each dialog. This can be revealing the character, communicating information, creating conflict, or reinforcing the plot.

4.    Phrase length and structure: It is important to vary the phrase length and dialog structure. Long monologues can be effective, but short and sharp responses can also add dynamism to the dialogue.

The rhythm of dialogs is the pulsation, speed, and intonation features that determine how characters interact in the dialog. It is important to create the right rhythm for each scene:

1.       Tempo: The rhythm can be fast and energetic or slow and thoughtful. The pace of dialogue may vary depending on the mood of the scene. For example, in a tense scene, the dialogue may be fast and short, while in a psychological drama, it may be slow and deep.

2.     Pauses: Pauses can be a powerful tool in drama. They can create tension, highlight important points, and give characters’ time to think.

3.     Intonation: Intonation and accents are important for conveying emotions and nuances in dialogues. Emphasize key points by changing your intonation and voice accent.