How does repetition affect the structure of the play?(1 point)

Question

Responses

Repeated lines (“I am American”) and devices (pantomime) reinforce the similarities between stories.
Repeated lines (“I am American”) and devices (pantomime) reinforce the similarities between stories.

Repeated dates (1634, 1847, 1863) call attention to the scope of the nation’s history.
Repeated dates (1634, 1847, 1863) call attention to the scope of the nation’s history.

Repeated silent entrances and exits indicate that many conflicts go unresolved.
Repeated silent entrances and exits indicate that many conflicts go unresolved.

Repeated rhythms in drums and dance suggest a single unified heartbeat.
Repeated rhythms in drums and dance suggest a single unified heartbeat.

Answer 1

All four statements address different ways in which repetition can affect the structure of a play, highlighting various thematic and structural elements.

1. Repeated lines (“I am American”) and devices (pantomime) emphasize unity and shared experiences among characters, reinforcing the play's broader themes of identity and belonging.

2. Repeated dates (1634, 1847, 1863) serve as reminders of historical milestones, framing the play within a larger narrative of American history and its complexities, thus highlighting the significance of these moments over time.

3. Repeated silent entrances and exits suggest an ongoing cycle of conflict and unresolved issues, hinting at deeper emotional or societal themes that permeate the characters' lives, conveying a sense of persistence in human struggles.

4. Repeated rhythms in drums and dance create a sense of cohesion and connection among the characters, symbolizing collective experience and the idea that their stories, while unique, resonate with a shared heartbeat.

Each form of repetition plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative structure and emotional impact of the play, enriching its thematic depth.