In dramatic structure, exposition is the element that provides information about the historical and cultural context. It is the part of the play or script where background information is given, such as the setting, characters' backgrounds, and the circumstances that lead to the main action. This context helps the audience understand the motivations and actions of the characters within their specific historical and cultural framework.
While stage directions and dialogue can also convey aspects of the historical and cultural context, they primarily serve different purposes: stage directions might indicate how characters should act and the setting of a scene, while dialogue showcases character interactions and conflicts. The rising action builds suspense and develops the story but typically focuses on the plot rather than providing background context.