Stock characters

Definition

Stock characters are stereotypical figures that are easily recognizable and often recur in literature, especially in comedic forms. They represent specific traits or roles, such as the clever servant, the foolish old man, or the romantic hero, and serve to simplify character development while advancing the plot. In New Comedy, particularly in the works of Menander, these stock characters helped establish familiar comedic scenarios and themes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Menander's plays typically included a set of stock characters that audiences could easily identify with, such as the naive young lover and the scheming slave.
2. Stock characters allowed playwrights like Menander to focus on dialogue and situational comedy rather than deep character development.
3. These characters often reflected contemporary social norms and issues, making the plays relatable to the audience of their time.
4. Stock characters contributed to the formulaic structure of New Comedy, where certain scenarios and resolutions became predictable but entertaining.
5. The use of stock characters laid the groundwork for future comedic traditions in Western literature and theater, influencing writers from Shakespeare to modern sitcoms.

Review Questions

• How do stock characters enhance the comedic elements in Menander's plays?
  • Stock characters enhance the comedic elements in Menander's plays by providing a familiar framework for audiences to connect with. Their exaggerated traits and predictable behaviors create humor through contrast and situational irony. By using these recognizable figures, Menander could quickly set up comedic situations without extensive character backstories, allowing for faster-paced plots that focused on dialogue and interaction.
• In what ways do stock characters reflect societal values and norms in New Comedy?
  • Stock characters in New Comedy reflect societal values and norms by embodying common traits and behaviors that were recognized by audiences of the time. For instance, characters like the cunning slave or the foolish rich man not only provided comic relief but also critiqued social hierarchies and relationships. This made the plays resonate with viewers who saw their own societal dynamics mirrored in these exaggerated portrayals.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of stock characters on modern comedy genres and their significance in storytelling.
  • The lasting impact of stock characters on modern comedy genres is profound, as they continue to serve as foundational archetypes across various forms of storytelling. Whether in television sitcoms or contemporary films, these characters provide an instant connection with audiences by evoking familiar themes and situations. The predictability of stock characters allows for both comfort and humor, demonstrating their significance in engaging storytelling that resonates through time. This enduring quality shows how essential they are not only for comedic effect but also for building narrative structure in storytelling.

Related terms

New Comedy:

A style of ancient Greek comedy that emerged in the 4th century BCE, focusing on everyday life and common social situations, often featuring stock characters.

Menander:

An ancient Greek playwright credited with shaping New Comedy, known for his complex characters and plots that emphasized social relationships and domestic issues.

Comedic Archetypes: Broad categories of humorous character types that embody specific traits, such as the wise fool or the miserly character, often found in comedic literature.