Significant Historical Information Regarding Its Initial Production
SECTION ONE (Contextual Information)
In this section list all the important facts about the play; its author and significant historical information regarding its initial production. This is the practical and logical section of your PAF.
Author information (short biography, other works).
Cast of characters, number of acts, scenes, number of sets.
Information about the historical period in which the play was written. Really try to capture the world of the play.
As a categorizing label, state what type or kind of play it is. (i.e., classic Greek tragedy, 19th century melodrama, 1940’s American farce, etc.) NOTE: Remember that there are only 2 basic or pure forms of drama, namely tragedy and comedy. All other forms are derivatives or amalgamations of those basic two such as farce, melodrama, tragi-comedy, heroic comedy or drama, etc. The historical period may also influence the label. For example: expressionistic farce in the French tradition or Elizabethan tragedy influenced by the Roman playwright Seneca, etc.
Any vital or unusual production problems. For example: a goat is needed; 2 or more children; a moose head is required, etc.
we will view the “documentary” film Exit Through the Gift Shop
In class, we will view the “documentary” film Exit Through the Gift Shop, a film by Banksy. Following the viewing and subsequent discussion in class you will write a 2-3 page paper answering the following questions…
What is the true nature of art? How does consumerism affect art? Can art be owned by a consumer? What is the difference between art and vandalism?
and finally…Is this all an elaborate prank? A fake? Did Banksy pull a fast one on all of us, and if he did, what is he trying to say about art, politics, and society in general?
The paper will be due by 11PM on Friday, December 14th.