The Thirty Six Dramatic Situations: An Intriguing Journey into Human Storytelling

Human emotions and stories have been a part of our existence since ancient times. Whether through cave paintings or theatrical performances, humans have always sought to express their experiences in captivating and meaningful ways. One fascinating exploration of this subject is "The Thirty Six Dramatic Situations" by Mike Figgis, a deep dive into the essence of human storytelling and the intricacies of dramatic situations.

As a renowned filmmaker and director, Mike Figgis has dedicated his career to understanding the core elements that make a story captivating and emotionally resonant. His work on "Leaving Las Vegas" and "Timecode" has solidified his reputation as a master storyteller. However, it is Figgis' exploration of "The Thirty Six Dramatic Situations" that truly showcases his profound understanding of human narratives.

The Thirty-Six Dramatic Situations

by Mike Figgis (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2892 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	168 pages

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The Essence of Dramatic Situations: A Roadmap to Emotional Connection

In his book, Mike Figgis delves into the concept of "The Thirty Six Dramatic Situations," originally coined by Georges Polti in the 19th century. According to Polti, all stories can be classified into 36 fundamental situations. Figgis builds upon this concept, shedding light on each situation and discussing their relevance in modern storytelling.

These 36 situations range from themes like "Supplication" and "Revolt" to "Return" and "Madness." Each situation represents a unique emotional journey for the characters involved, ensuring that the audience remains engaged and invested in the story. By understanding these situations, storytellers can create narratives that resonate deeply with their audience.

Breaking Down the Dramatic Situations: Unveiling the Complexity of Human Experiences

In "The Thirty Six Dramatic Situations," Mike Figgis meticulously dissects each situation, providing insights into the complexities of human experiences. Through a combination of theoretical analysis and real-life examples, Figgis uncovers the emotional depth that lies within each situation.

For example, let's consider the situation of "Deliverance." Figgis explores the challenges faced by characters who are trapped or in dire circumstances, analyzing how the struggle for survival creates fertile ground for intense emotional connections. Drawing on examples from films like "Alive" and "The Revenant," Figgis highlights the power of this situation in evoking empathy and creating unforgettable moments.

Furthermore, Figgis examines the situation of "Infidelity," exploring the intricate dynamics of human relationships and the consequences of betrayal. By dissecting films like "Eyes Wide Shut" and "Unfaithful," Figgis uncovers the underlying emotions and motivations that drive characters to make choices that can alter their lives forever. This exploration allows storytellers to delve into the complexities of human nature and create narratives that resonate with a wide range of audiences.

The Universal Appeal: Applying the Thirty Six Dramatic Situations to Different Cultures

One of the most intriguing aspects of "The Thirty Six Dramatic Situations" is its universal applicability. Figgis demonstrates that these situations exist across cultures and time periods, proving their enduring relevance to human storytelling.

Whether it's an ancient Greek tragedy or a modern Hollywood blockbuster, the 36 situations encompass every facet of human emotions and experiences. From the joys of "Discovery" to the despair of "Loss" and the triumph of "Vengeance," Figgis emphasizes that these situations create a common ground where stories can connect people from all walks of life.

Mike Figgis and the Evolution of Storytelling

In addition to exploring the facets of dramatic situations, Figgis reflects on the evolving nature of storytelling in the digital age. With the rise of technology and social media, Figgis recognizes the importance of adapting traditional narrative structures to engage contemporary audiences.

By incorporating new methods of storytelling, such as interactive experiences or multi-platform narratives, Figgis encourages storytellers to push the boundaries of creativity and immerse audiences in unique and captivating experiences.

: An Unmissable Journey into Human Narratives

The Thirty Six Dramatic Situations by Mike Figgis is a captivating exploration of the essence of human storytelling. Through his thorough analysis and thought-provoking insights, Figgis unveils the emotional core of each situation, allowing storytellers to understand the complexities of human experiences and create narratives that resonate deeply with their audiences.

As a master filmmaker and director, Figgis' expertise shines through, making this book an essential read for aspiring storytellers, film enthusiasts, and anyone intrigued by the power of narratives.

So, embark on this unmissable journey with Mike Figgis and immerse yourself in the world of "The Thirty Six Dramatic Situations."

The Thirty-Six Dramatic Situations

by Mike Figgis (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2892 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	168 pages

FREE

The original 36 Dramatic Situations was written in in French by Georges Polti in the 1850s. Polti synthesised all drama as belonging to combinations of 36 situations. In the book he illustrates each 'situation' with examples from classical and French theatre.

When Mike Figgis used the book as an aid in putting together a treatment for a film, he found that his landscape of creativity had altered quite radically and ideas came forth with relative ease.He realised that Polti's book was system of reference which could be a powerful tool for writers. So he began updating all of the references, moving the focus away from theatre and focussing primarily on cinema.

In the first half, each 'Dramatic Situation' is laid out under the 36 headings. The specific 'Situation' is then explained more fully, followed by an example from a specific film, accompanied by an explanation of how the device is used in the film. In the second half of the book there are a series of charts which analyse 150 great films (of all genres) based on the 36 situations.