Objectives

Definition

Objectives are the specific goals or intentions that a character aims to achieve within a scene or throughout a performance. These objectives drive the character's actions and choices, serving as the foundation for their behavior and interactions with other characters. Understanding a character's objectives is crucial for actors and directors, as it informs the emotional truth of the performance and enhances the overall storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Objectives can change from one scene to another, reflecting the dynamic nature of character development and interaction.
2. A clear understanding of a character's objectives allows actors to portray their roles more authentically, as they can align their choices with the character's intentions.
3. Objectives are often influenced by external circumstances, including relationships with other characters, the setting, and the plot's progression.
4. In Stanislavski's system, identifying objectives is crucial for creating psychological realism, as it helps actors delve into the inner lives of their characters.
5. The pursuit of objectives can lead to conflict, as characters may have competing desires that drive the narrative forward.

Review Questions

• How do objectives impact a character's development and interaction with others in a performance?
  • Objectives are vital in shaping a character's development because they provide direction for their actions and decisions. When a character has clear objectives, it influences how they interact with others, as their relationships often reflect their desires. This interplay can lead to compelling dynamics on stage, making it essential for actors to understand these objectives to create believable performances.
• In what ways does Stanislavski's approach to objectives enhance psychological realism in acting?
  • Stanislavski emphasized the importance of objectives in his approach to acting by encouraging performers to explore their characters' motivations deeply. By focusing on specific goals within each scene, actors can connect more authentically with their roles, creating an emotional truth that resonates with the audience. This method fosters psychological realism because it mirrors real human behavior, where individuals are constantly pursuing their desires amidst obstacles.
• Evaluate how conflicting objectives among characters contribute to dramatic tension in a performance.
  • Conflicting objectives among characters are fundamental in creating dramatic tension as they introduce stakes into the narrative. When characters want different things or have opposing goals, it leads to conflicts that propel the story forward. This tension not only captivates the audience but also reveals deeper insights into each character's motivations and struggles, enhancing the overall emotional impact of the performance.

Related terms

Superobjective: The overarching goal that a character strives for throughout an entire play or narrative, encompassing their primary desires and motivations.

Motivation: The underlying reason or desire that drives a character to pursue their objectives, shaping their actions and responses in various situations.

Conflict: The struggle between opposing forces, which can arise from differing objectives among characters and is essential for creating tension and drama in a story.