The Period Drama as a Genre

The Period Drama

Drama as a genre:

“A drama film is a film genre that depends mostly on in-depth development of realistic characters dealing with emotional themes… such as… moral dilemmas, racial prejudice, religious intolerance, sexuality, poverty, class divisions, violence against women and corruption that put the characters in conflict with themselves, other, society and even natural phenomena. Drama… includes subgenres such as romantic drama, sports films, period drama, courtroom and crime” - 
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drama_film

 The Period Drama as a genre

“A historical period drama is a work of art set in, or reminiscent of, an earlier time period. The term is usually used in context of film and television. In an informal crossover term that can apply to several genres but is most often heard in context of historical dramas and romances” - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Historical_period_drama

As genre definitions go, the period drama has a considerable amount of rules – Most importantly that it is set in the past and conforms to the context that is trying to be achieved. As it is a subgenre, the period drama must also conform to themes and motifs within drama films which involves the development of a protagonist in an in-depth, ‘realistic’ way. Since the story will not take place in a modern setting, the period drama must conform to its time period for sake of continuity and plausibility. For example, an Italian 17^th Century Duke would not be wearing trainers.

Therefore, when perusing the period drama, production must have a clear sense of historical accuracy in mind of setting, dialogue and costume. This is why the period drama can also be referred to as a ‘Costume Drama’ (http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/costume-drama). It is also notable to mention that many period dramas are based on classical literature that has captured the imagination of many. The period drama is not time-exclusive but many reputable works originating from the 18^th and 19^th Century - with key romantic works from authors like Austen, Bronte and Hardy - have found themselves to be adapted successfully on screen several times.  

In terms of my production, I will be focusing on the hybrid subgenre of Romantic Period Drama which focuses, traditionally, on the interaction of a male and female whilst using usual drama themes of moral dilemmas, class divisions, sexuality and violence against women. These themes are very relevant in the late 18^th / early 19^th Century which is the time period that I shall focus on when analysing, understanding and learning about the period drama as a genre. This knowledge will then influence my product.