Playwriting - Part 2 - The Basic Structure

There are many different types of plays these days. However, if you want to write a play (or any other type of writing)that follows the idea of starting off with a protagonist encountering an inciting incident and going on a journey, there's a basic formula. Even though plays are usually divided into two acts, when writing using the basic traditional formula, it is good to think of a play as having three acts. It can be separated into two acts after it is written. By following this formula, you will be following Freytag's Pyramid.

The first act is the set up. This is where the audience learns what is necessary to know. The main character is introduced and the inciting incident happens so that the audience knows what is to expect. In Shrek, we are introduced to Shrek. We find out that it is Lord Farquaad causing his problems and we finally find out that Shrek has to go on the quest to save Fiona. I, personally, would put the inciting incident when Farquaad promises Shrek that he will give him his swamp back when Fiona is rescued. This sets Shrek on his adventure.

The second act is the struggle. This part deals with the main character dealing with his situation, dilemma, or challenge by encountering various struggles along the journey. Shrek has to deal with the journey and Donkey following him. There's crossing the bridge to the castle. More challenges will come and then the midpoint crisis will happen during the second act. It is probably when Shrek has a huge argument with Fiona about misunderstanding the overheard conversation. It will have some more action afterwards, too. Shrek travels with Fiona and Donkey. He finds himself falling in love with Fiona.

The third act is the solution. The main character will be forced into taking action in order to make the resolution come. Shrek figures he must interrupt the wedding. He is forced into doing this because if he doesn't, Fiona will marry Lord Farquaad.

In short, to remember how to write anything following a basic dramatic structure, it is Set Up, Struggle, and Solution.