Dramatic arc
The overall shape and trajectory of dramatic action: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. Arcs show how action builds to a peak and concludes.
Real World
Arthur Miller's 'Death of a Salesman' builds its arc through Willy Loman's declining grip on reality, rising to the climax of his suicide, then resolving in the 'Requiem' — each structural stage shifts how we judge Willy's delusions.
Exam Focus
Name the specific stage of the arc (rising action, climax, denouement) and explain how structure shapes audience response at that moment.
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