Lessons 53–54 · 2 lessons · B. To‘xliyev, B. Karimov, K. Usmonova. Literature: textbook-collection for Grade 11 of secondary schools and for students of secondary specialised and vocational institutions, Parts 1–2. 1st edition. “O‘zbekiston milliy ensiklopediyasi” State Scientific Publishing House, Tashkent, 2018
53
Drama of the independence period
Textbook: Part 2, pp. 120–121
GoalKnow the distinctive character of Uzbek drama of the independence period, the drama genres (comedy, tragedy, tragicomedy) and the artistic means of a stage work.
New words
comedy · komediyatragedy · fojia (tragediya)tragicomedy · tragikomediyamonologue and dialogue · monolog va dialog
Explanation
According to the textbook, Uzbek drama is linked to the cultural climate of the early twentieth century: the Jadid enlighteners regarded the theatre stage as a school of lessons and a mirror for the people; “Padarkush” (Behbudiy), “Abulfayzxon” (Fitrat) and “Sohibqiron” (Oripov) are named as examples of this tradition. In comedy the author conveys the idea through character and laughter, while in tragedy through the pity that arises from an extremely strong conflict between heroes and their environment; “Temir xotin” (Sharof Boshbekov) is given as a tragicomedy that combines features of both genres. In the dramas of the independence period Uzbek life, national values and customs, the heritage of ancestors and awareness of national identity are at the centre of attention. In a stage work a character is revealed by means such as dialogue and monologue, action, gesture, silence, tears or laughter, so the author writes with the audience’s reception in mind.
Worked examples
Example: if a viewer laughs at a hero’s comic plight while also grieving over his hard fate, the work has the character of a tragicomedy.
Example: a hero standing silent for a long time without a word (silence) can serve on stage as a depictive means showing his inner state.
Class activity
Make a three-column table: genre – main feature – one example familiar to you. Fill it for comedy, tragedy and tragicomedy.
Practice
1
How did the Jadid enlighteners view the theatre stage?
As a school of lessons and a mirror for the people.
2
Explain the main difference between comedy and tragedy.
In comedy the idea comes through character and laughter; in tragedy through pity arising from a strong conflict.
3
Which work does the textbook give as an example of tragicomedy and why is it so called?
Sharof Boshbekov’s “Temir xotin” – it has both laughter and the tragedy of a person crushed by labour.
4
Why must a dramatist also think about the audience’s reception?
Drama is written for the stage: how the heroes appear and how they affect viewers decides the work’s longevity.