Adelphiasoplot
Fatal Imprudence: Georg Polti Plots or Storylines - The 36 Dramatic or Tragic Situations
Abstract
Wise Women Discuss—Plot!
Fatal Imprudence
The three subsections cover imprudence, curiosity and credulity and the results are largely interchangeable. Credulity can be gained through a ruse or deception. The dishonor caused can be of probity, of courage, of modesty, of loyalty, etc. The catastrophe waiting to happen can be caused by:
- an infraction of a prohibition or law made by a god
- the deadly effect of the imprudent act (mechanical, biological, judicial, martial, etc)
- the consequences for the kindred of the committer
- a sin previously committed, consciously or unconsciously, and about to be revealed or punished.
The imprudence might be instigated for reasons other than curiosity or credulity—jealousy, for example; or any passion, emotion, desire, need, taste, indeed any human weakness, eg sleep, hunger,muscular activity, gluttony, lust, coquetry, childish simplicity. The final disaster might fall upon physical, moral, or social well-being; by destruction of happiness, honor, property or power.
The non-essential figure of the instigator could be featured, motivated by ambition, jealousy, vengeance, misanthropy, or simple self-interest. Perhaps envy is the best motive of all.
Elements
- An imprudent person
- A victim or an object lost
- sometimes…a counsellor, a wise person who cautions against the imprudence
- sometimes…an instigator, wicked selfish or thoughtless
Themes
- Imprudence (curiosity, credulity) the cause of…
- one’s own…
- misfortune The Master Builder, Ibsen
- dishonor
- death or misfortune to others
- a kinsman
- a loved one The Wild Duck, Ibsen (curiosity)
- loss of possession of…
- …a loved one
- …a benefactor or protege
- …a true friend
