Trifles
This play is not a tragedy, but it's a good contrast to the classical play of Oedipus to see the changes in the structure of plays.
1. Comment on the differences in subject matter, characterization, setting, stage directions, theme, climax, dramatic structure, tone, and diction.
1) Subject Matter: In Oedipus, the subject matter is the main character himself and how he rose to power as King and how that power was quickly taken away due to circumstances from the past. In Trifles, the subject matter is the murder of Mr. Wright and the speculation between the sexes as to if his wife killed him and why she may have killed him. While both plays have tragic incidents, Oedipus fits more clearly within the definition of tragedy whereas Trifles falls within the category of drama.
2) Characterization: The characters of Oedipus were very dramatic, very vocal about the specific goings-on within the play. Based on what was said, there was no question as to what events had taken place and how they affect each character in the play. In Trifles, the characters were more generalized: strong domineering male characters and quiet, “obeying” female characters. The women were very vocal when speaking with each other but keep their opinions and findings to themselves in order to possibly protect their friend. The ironic thing between the two plays is the difference between the female characters. In Oedipus, the female character of Jocasta was a very strong character who didn’t think twice about speaking her mind whereas in Trifles, the two female characters of Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters, while they are strong characters within, they were quiet and obedient toward the men in the play. They didn’t voice their opinions or findings unlike Jocasta who voiced everything.
3) Setting & Stage Direction: The settings for both plays were completely different. Trifles was set in a rural farmhouse in the early 1900’s. Oedipus was set at the palace in Thebes hundreds of...