Stock characters

Definition

Stock characters are archetypal figures that are easily recognizable and often recur in various works of literature, particularly in comedy and drama. These characters typically embody specific traits or roles, such as the clever servant or the naive young lover, which makes them instantly relatable to audiences. Their predictable nature helps to advance the plot and establish themes, especially in the context of New Comedy, where everyday situations and domestic themes are explored.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Stock characters play a crucial role in New Comedy, which focuses on domestic life and relationships.
2. Menander, a key figure in New Comedy, utilized stock characters to develop humorous situations and relatable themes.
3. Common stock characters include the miserly father, the clever servant, and the young lovers who face obstacles.
4. These characters often embody exaggerated traits that lead to comedic misunderstandings and conflicts.
5. The use of stock characters allows playwrights to quickly establish character dynamics and engage audiences with familiar scenarios.

Review Questions

• How do stock characters enhance the comedic elements in Menander's plays?
  • Stock characters enhance the comedic elements in Menander's plays by providing a familiar framework for humor. Their exaggerated traits often lead to misunderstandings and conflicts that create comedic situations. For example, the clever servant may outsmart a foolish master, leading to humorous scenarios that reflect social dynamics. This use of recognizable figures allows audiences to connect with the humor on a deeper level as they see reflections of their own lives.
• Discuss how stock characters contribute to the development of themes related to domestic life in New Comedy.
  • Stock characters contribute significantly to the development of themes related to domestic life in New Comedy by representing various societal roles within family and community settings. Through these archetypal figures, playwrights can explore issues such as love, marriage, and familial conflict. For instance, the presence of a strict father character may highlight generational tensions while allowing for comedic resolutions that underscore the importance of love and understanding within domestic relationships.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of using stock characters in modern adaptations of New Comedy plays, considering audience engagement and thematic relevance.
  • The effectiveness of using stock characters in modern adaptations of New Comedy plays lies in their ability to resonate with contemporary audiences while maintaining thematic relevance. By updating these archetypal figures with modern traits or contexts, playwrights can engage viewers through familiar dynamics while addressing current societal issues. This approach not only preserves the humor inherent in these stock figures but also allows for deeper exploration of timeless themes such as love, ambition, and familial relationships, proving that even age-old archetypes can still captivate today's audience.

Related terms

Archetype: A universally recognized symbol or motif in literature that represents a typical example of a person or thing.

Cliché: An overused expression or idea that has lost its originality and impact, often due to excessive repetition.

Character foil: A character that contrasts with another character, usually the protagonist, to highlight particular qualities of the main character.