Objective

Definition

In the context of theater, an objective refers to the specific goal or intention that a character seeks to achieve within a scene or monologue. It is crucial for actors to identify their character's objectives as it drives the character's actions and choices, creating a dynamic and engaging performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Understanding the objective helps actors connect with their characters and deliver more authentic performances.
2. Objectives can change throughout a scene or monologue as circumstances evolve, leading to dynamic shifts in character behavior.
3. An actor's ability to communicate their character's objective clearly impacts how the audience perceives the story.
4. Objectives are often layered; characters may have multiple objectives at once, adding complexity to their motivations.
5. Identifying objectives is essential for rehearsals as it guides actors in making specific choices about how to portray their characters.

Review Questions

• How does identifying a character's objective enhance an actor's performance in a scene?
  • Identifying a character's objective enhances an actor's performance by providing clarity on what drives the character’s actions and choices. This understanding allows the actor to portray genuine emotions and reactions, making the performance more relatable and impactful. When actors clearly communicate their objectives, it not only enriches their portrayal but also helps engage the audience in the narrative.
• Discuss how objectives can evolve during a monologue and what effect this has on the character's portrayal.
  • Objectives can evolve during a monologue based on shifts in emotion, revelation of information, or reactions to other characters. This evolution impacts how the actor conveys tension and change, leading to a richer portrayal of the character’s journey. As objectives shift, it allows the audience to witness growth or conflict within the character, which adds depth and makes the performance more engaging.
• Evaluate the role of obstacles in achieving a character's objective and how they contribute to dramatic tension.
  • Obstacles play a vital role in achieving a character's objective as they introduce conflict and challenge, which are essential components of drama. Evaluating these obstacles reveals how characters react under pressure, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. By overcoming or failing to overcome these obstacles, characters experience growth or decline, contributing significantly to dramatic tension and keeping the audience invested in their journey.

Related terms

Superobjective: The overarching goal or desire that drives a character throughout the entire play, influencing their decisions and actions.

Action: The physical or emotional steps a character takes in pursuit of their objective, often described as what the character is doing in a scene.

Obstacle: Any external or internal force that hinders a character's ability to achieve their objective, creating conflict within the scene.