Name: Samantha Nicole Naria
ASCRIPT CLASS, 1ST TERM, AY 2023-2024
ELEMENT
Plot (10 pts)
Is the plot the main driving force of the
play?
Do the scenes fulfill a unity of action?
Does it arouse pity and fear?
Is the plot simple or complex?
Does the plot consist of a peripety
(reversal), discovery (big reveal), and
suffering?
Character (10 pts)
Do the characters serve as a support to the
plot? Or do they seem to be the driving
force of the story?
Do(es) the main protagonist/s come from
nobility and goodness?
Does the main protagonist/s consist of an
hamartia, or tragic flaw?
Does the journey of the character go from
happiness to misery?
Explain how Ibsen’s Ghosts may or may not fulfill the ideal
tragic elements recommended by Aristotle.
Initially, the play does not heavily rely on plot, as it is a consequential series of events that
may not make sense at first. The play relays information through these events, gradually
building up to revelations more shocking than the next, which then explains how the
characters were influenced and impacted by society. Aristotle believes that the plot is the
most essential aspect in a tragedy based play. In terms of being of it "plot driven," one
would expect the main storyline to be somewhat explained to the audience, providing
enough information to follow through the events that unfold. However, Ibsen's Ghosts
takes a more complex approach, introducing characters and plot points that are slowly
connected, revealing the characters' relationships as the plot progresses. Rather than asking
"What's going to happen?" the play prompts the audience to ask "What is going on?" This
induces suspense and eventually pity for the characters as the gradual build-up of plot
finally explains the underlying theme of filial piety, or duty to family members above all
else, which is a haunting presence throughout the play.
In Henrik Ibsen's play, Ghosts, the characters serve more as vehicles for the progression of
the plot rather than being the main driving force. Ibsen skillfully constructs a web of
connections and intricacies among his characters, unveiling their complex backgrounds,
fickle morals, and multifaceted characteristics. This brings out the Hamartia aspect of
Ibsen's characters in the play, which coincides with Aristotle's elements. Within this
narrative framework, the characters in Ghosts play significant roles in bringing forth
catharsis, a release of emotions and tensions, for both themselves and the audience. As the
plot unfolds, the characters grapple with their pasts, making choices that reveal their true
nature and ignite intense emotional turmoil. Through the exploration of their
interconnected relationships and secrets, Ibsen effectively elicits catharsis within the play's
themes of family, societal expectations, and hidden truths. While the characters themselves
may not be the driving force of the plot, their interactions and personal journeys serve as
catalysts for the events that unfold.
Name: Samantha Nicole Naria
ASCRIPT CLASS, 1ST TERM, AY 2023-2024
Thought (Theme) (10 pts)
What is the main inquiry that the play seeks
out?
What is the play’s logical statement?
What universal truth does it wish to point
out?
Diction (Language) (10 pts)
What type of language does the dramatist
employ? (Stylized, lyrical/poetic, realistic,
etc.)
Melody (Rhythm) (10 pts)
Does the play employ a song sung through
by a chorus? If not, what other types of
rhythms does the dramatist use in the
pacing of the story and dialogue? Fast-
paced? Slow-paced? Describe the rhythm
or pacing of the dialogue.
The main theme of Henrik Ibsen's play, Ghosts, may not be immediately apparent to its
readers or audience, particularly in its first half. However, as the story unfolds, the play
delves into the exploration of complex moral dilemmas and revolves around the haunting
presence of the underlying theme of filial piety. Central to the narrative is the notion that
one's duty to family members should supersede all other obligations. Ibsen brilliantly
conveys this universal truth through his characters' actions and conflicts. As the play
progresses, the audience witnesses the characters torn between doing what is expected of
them by society and adhering to their familial responsibilities. Whether it is Mrs. Alving's
struggle to reconcile her duty as a mother with her desire for personal fulfillment or
Oswald's internal battle between loyalty and self-preservation, the theme of filial piety
remains a constant presence. Throughout Ghosts, Ibsen employs logical statements and
thought-provoking situations to evoke a deeper understanding of the complex moral
dilemmas his characters face. Ibsen's masterful exploration of this theme not only
challenges societal norms but also prompts reflection on the universal truths that govern
our own lives and relationships.
Ibsen's approach in Ghost resonates with the principles outlined in Aristotle's Poetics, which
emphasizes the significance of language and performance in drama. The combination of
realistic dialogue and stylized elements creates a compelling theatrical experience that
captivates the audience's senses and intellect. Seeing as most scripts are better understood
when recited vocally rather than internally, through skillful diction and the oral delivery of
the script, Ibsen transports his audience into a world where the ordinary becomes
extraordinary, inviting them to reflect on the timeless themes and moral dilemmas
addressed in the play.
Drawing inspiration from Aristotles Poetics, the emotional intensity and the sense of
catharsis in a play like Ibsen's Ghost are essential, for it is through the gradual unraveling of
the characters' secrets and their subsequent emotional turmoil that these crucial elements
are achieved. The play's ability to evoke strong emotions, such as fear, pity, or empathy,
creates a deep connection between the audience and the story. This emotional engagement
is crucial for achieving catharsis, a profound release of emotions that leaves the audience
feeling cleansed and uplifted. The revelation of the characters' secrets also adds layers of
complexity to the plot, intensifying the emotional impact on the audience.
Name: Samantha Nicole Naria
ASCRIPT CLASS, 1ST TERM, AY 2023-2024
Spectacle (10 pts) In Aristotle's Poetics, spectacle is often regarded as the least significant element in the
If you were to mount this onstage, how context of tragedy. While other elements such as plot, character, thought, and language
would you organize its stage execution in take precedence, the concept of spectacle focuses on the visual aspects of a theatrical
that it fulfills Aristotle’s formula/preference performance, including costumes, sets, and special effects. However, I believe that even
of the ideal spectacle for tragedy?
though spectacle might be deemed less important, it still plays a crucial role in the
execution of a play. When staging a tragedy in accordance with Aristotle's Poetics, it is
essential to strike a balance between creating minimal yet detailed sets and appropriate
lighting that stays true to the playwright's vision. These elements should enhance and
support the narrative rather than overshadow it. By meticulously designing sets that
capture the essence of the story and effectively utilizing lighting techniques, the audience's
immersion can be amplified.
SYNTHESIS (40 pts)
In gist, do you think Henrik Ibsen’s Ghosts perfectly follows Aristotle’s Poetics on Tragedy? Why?
If you don’t think that the play adheres to the rules of Aristotle’s Tragedy, then can you explain why this might be so?.
Alternatively, if you somehow think the play is half-half in fulfilling the rules of Aristotle’s Tragedy, then does that make Ghosts
necessarily a bad tragedy? Explain.

Henrik Ibsen's play "Ghost" undoubtedly aligns with Aristotle's poetics of Tragedy. Although I initially held reservations about its storyline,
upon closer examination, it becomes evident that the play heavily relies on its intricately woven plot, more so than other elements. This
adherence to the fundamental principles of tragedy, as established by Aristotle, is a testament to Ibsen's mastery of the genre.One vital
aspect apparent in "Ghost" is its exploration of profound and multifaceted themes. Aristotle underscores the importance of a tragic play
tackling universal concepts, forces that resonate with audiences across time and cultures. Ibsen's work delves into topics such as societal
norms, moral dilemmas, and the consequences of one's actions. By delving into these weighty subjects, "Ghost" evokes a cathartic response
within its audience, fulfilling Aristotle's objective of purging emotions through the viewing of tragedy.

Moreover, "Ghost" exhibits a well-rounded structure that harmonizes with Aristotle's notions of tragedy. Following the traditional
framework of a tragic plot, Ibsen incorporates the three unities of time, place, and action, ensuring a cohesive and focused narrative. This
adherence to structure allows Ibsen to maintain the intensity and emotional impact necessary for a successful tragic play.