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Comedy as a Plot

Updated: May 26

Comedy, as a plot, often involves a transition from a state of confusion to one of clarity. Throughout much of the story, the central characters’ true nature or identity may be hidden and relationships uncertain. The main source of this confusion is typically a dark central figure (another character) acting blindly and creating chaos, division, and misunderstandings among the characters.



The Symbolic Union

The transition from confusion to clarity in a Comedy plot is symbolised by the union of the protagonist and their love interest. Initially, true identities are obscured and relationships are uncertain thanks to the actions of the dark figure. However, at the climax of the story, this darkness is exposed and everyone’s true nature is revealed. The protagonist and their love interest finally unite, symbolising the resolution of the story’s central conflict and the coming together of what was previously divided. This union represents a return to a state of clarity, where everything is seen clearly and runs smoothly.


The Source of Conflict

The source of confusion and conflict in a Comedy plot is often the characters’ lack of understanding of others and themselves. Characters remain disconnected as they are not aware of each other’s true identity or their own. The process of recognition involves the characters discovering their true identities, leading to the unravelling of confusion and chaos. The climax of the story marks the height of the confusion, with everything appearing to go wrong until the Truth is revealed and unity is restored.


The Resolution

The resolution of confusion and conflict is achieved through the revelation of the Truth. With the unveiling of previously unknown facts, perceptions shift, illusions disappear, and the situation is transformed. The happy outcome requires a pivotal turning point, where the dark central figure that i’s responsible for the chaos must acknowledge and embrace a significant truth about themselves, leading to reconciliation and unity. The protagonist must uncover their true soulmate to feel fulfilled. Until this pairing is revealed, they appear aimless and unfinished. Recognising their counterpart is a critical aspect of recognising their full self-identity. The resolution of division, separation, and loss is crucial to the happy ending. Reuniting of families, finding of lost objects, and restoration of usurped kingdoms or communities all serve to repair what was broken. The journey from ignorance to knowledge transforms the story from division to wholeness, and from darkness to light. A truly happy ending is usually achieved when all characters have shed their disguises and are fully revealed in the light of the Truth.

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