Superobjective

Definition

A superobjective is the overarching goal that drives a character throughout a performance or narrative. It reflects a character's deepest desire or motivation, shaping their actions and choices in pursuit of this ultimate aim. Understanding a character's superobjective helps actors connect emotionally with their roles and provides a clear path for character development during the performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The superobjective provides a lens through which actors can interpret their character's actions, giving them clarity on why their character behaves in certain ways.
2. It differs from immediate objectives, which may change from scene to scene, as the superobjective remains consistent throughout the entire performance.
3. Identifying the superobjective can help actors make stronger choices in their performances, ensuring that every action contributes to this ultimate goal.
4. The concept of superobjective was popularized by acting teachers like Stanislavski and has become essential in method acting techniques.
5. Understanding the superobjective can enhance an actor's ability to connect with other characters on stage, creating more dynamic and engaging performances.

Review Questions

• How does a character's superobjective influence their actions within specific scenes?
  • A character's superobjective serves as the driving force behind their actions in each scene. It gives context to their immediate objectives, guiding their decisions and behaviors. When an actor is aware of their character's superobjective, they can create more authentic and purposeful interactions with other characters, making their performance feel cohesive and aligned with the overall narrative arc.
• Discuss the difference between superobjective and objective in acting and how each contributes to character development.
  • The superobjective is the long-term goal that drives a character throughout the entire narrative, while an objective refers to short-term goals that can change from scene to scene. Understanding both concepts is crucial for character development; the superobjective provides consistency and depth, while objectives allow for dynamic changes in behavior. Together, they help actors create layered performances that resonate with audiences.
• Evaluate the role of superobjective in an actor’s preparation process and its impact on audience engagement.
  • The superobjective plays a critical role in an actor’s preparation by providing clarity on the character’s ultimate goal, which influences their emotional journey throughout the performance. By understanding this overarching aim, actors can make informed choices that enhance their portrayal and create more relatable characters. This connection not only enriches their performance but also engages the audience on a deeper level, as viewers can better understand and empathize with the character's struggles and motivations.

Related terms

Objective: An objective is a specific goal that a character wants to achieve in a given scene or moment, often seen as stepping stones toward the larger superobjective.

Motivation: Motivation refers to the reasons behind a character's actions and decisions, which are often rooted in their objectives and superobjective.

Throughline: The throughline is the continuous thread of action or intention that connects a character's objectives throughout the story, tying into the superobjective.