THTR 1020 : Farce Study Guide
Document Summary
Slide 2: origin of farce derives from french meaning stuffing , because it serves as a light hearted stuffing in between more serious drama with a reliance on broad slapstick humor, extreme situations, and superficial characters. This form of comedy developed during the roman era and can be seen in greek comedy. In the medieval period, the foolishness of human nature on display in farce provided relief from religious drama. Early farces focused on buffoonery, but the form evolved and developed plot complexities. Characters are trapped in extreme situations, and character is shaped as a response to the situation, not by an in-depth psychological portrait. The audience suspends its disbelief and accepts the far-fetched premise that sets the plot in motion. Slide 5: theatre spaces and common features of farce. Each farce develops an internal logic of its own that keeps the action moving.
