THE ORIGINALITY OF DRAMATIC ACTION (DISPOSITIO)

Abstract

Composition, of which drama is a result, is defined as the equivalent of dispositio, which, especially in theatre, is subject to strong imperatives. The time constraint of the plot, and the invention of the logical sequence of cause and effect are the first phase of this influence. Our study will strive to develop and analyse this notion of dispositio in the first regular tragedies of 17th century France, and to identify some opinions pertinent to these tragedies, by comparing them with the works of Antiquity.