An aside in drama is a dramatic device where a character speaks directly to the audience, unheard by other characters on stage.
Understanding the Dramatic Device
In the context of theatre, an aside is a dramatic device in which a character speaks to the audience. This differs significantly from standard dialogue, which is intended for other characters within the play's world. By convention, the audience is to realize that the character's speech is unheard by the other characters on stage. This creates a unique connection between the character and the viewers, breaking the fourth wall momentarily.
Key Characteristics of an Aside
Asides are defined by a few core characteristics:
- Direct Address: The character speaks to the audience, not at them incidentally.
- Unheard by Others: Crucially, other characters present on stage act as if they do not hear the aside. This is a fundamental theatrical convention.
- Brief: Asides are typically short, often just a line or two, though longer speeches can sometimes blur the line with a soliloquy.
Purpose and Function
Playwrights use asides for various strategic reasons to enhance the dramatic experience:
- Revealing Inner Thoughts: Asides provide insight into a character's private feelings, motives, or opinions that they would not express aloud to others.
- Providing Context: They can offer background information, explain a situation, or comment on events happening in the play.
- Creating Dramatic Irony: When the audience knows something the other characters don't (via an aside), it builds tension and anticipation.
- Engaging the Audience: Directly addressing the audience draws them into the character's confidence and makes them complicit in the character's thoughts or plans.
- Adding Humor or Sarcasm: Asides are often used for witty remarks or cynical commentary that would be inappropriate in dialogue.
Examples in Practice
Famous plays, particularly those from the Renaissance like Shakespeare's, frequently utilize asides. A character might say an aside to express their true feelings about another character who has just spoken, or to comment sarcastically on the unfolding plot, while the character they are speaking about remains oblivious.
Asides are a powerful tool for playwrights to deepen character, manipulate audience perception, and add layers of meaning to the theatrical performance.
