Aside

Definition

An aside is a dramatic device used in theatre where a character speaks directly to the audience, revealing their thoughts or feelings without other characters on stage hearing them. This technique creates a sense of intimacy and provides insight into a character's motivations, often enhancing the audience's understanding of the plot and themes. Asides are particularly significant in Shakespeare's works, where they serve to deepen character development and engage the audience more effectively.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Shakespeare frequently employed asides in his plays, notably in 'Hamlet' and 'Macbeth', to give depth to characters and plot twists.
2. An aside can be a brief comment or a longer speech, but it is always intended for the audience's ears only.
3. Asides help build suspense, as characters might reveal plans or secrets that other characters are unaware of.
4. This device allows for comedic moments, where a character's true feelings contrast with their public persona.
5. Asides contribute to the development of themes such as deception and truth, highlighting the disparity between appearance and reality.

Review Questions

• How does Shakespeare use asides to enhance character development within his plays?
  • Shakespeare uses asides to provide insight into a character’s true thoughts and motivations, allowing the audience to understand their inner conflicts and desires. For example, in 'Macbeth', Macbeth’s asides reveal his ambition and growing paranoia as he plots against King Duncan. These moments create a deeper connection between the audience and the character, making the unfolding drama more engaging and relatable.
• Analyze how the use of asides contributes to the theme of deception in Shakespearean drama.
  • Asides play a crucial role in illustrating the theme of deception by allowing characters to express thoughts that contradict their spoken words. This technique highlights the gap between appearance and reality, as characters may present a facade to others while revealing their true intentions to the audience. For instance, Iago’s asides in 'Othello' expose his manipulative nature and deceitful plans, which are pivotal to understanding the tragic events that follow.
• Evaluate the impact of asides on audience engagement in Shakespeare’s works compared to modern theatre practices.
  • Asides significantly enhance audience engagement in Shakespeare’s works by breaking the fourth wall and inviting viewers into the private thoughts of characters. This technique fosters a sense of intimacy and complicity between the audience and performers. In contrast, modern theatre sometimes relies more on visual storytelling or direct address rather than traditional asides, potentially shifting how audiences connect with characters. However, both approaches aim to create emotional resonance, demonstrating how different theatrical techniques evolve while retaining core elements of engaging storytelling.

Related terms

Soliloquy: A soliloquy is a type of monologue in which a character speaks their thoughts aloud while alone on stage, allowing the audience to hear their inner feelings and reflections.

Dramatic Irony: Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something that the characters do not, creating tension and engagement as events unfold.

Fourth Wall: The fourth wall is an imaginary barrier between the audience and the performers, which asides often break by acknowledging the audience's presence directly.