The Research On Ruan Dacheng’s Script Writing Art

Although Ruan Dacheng has an unsavory reputation,his opera works became such great hits at the time,thus playing a significant role in Chinese theatrical circle during late Ming and early Qing Dynasty.Due to his grand influence,there are many articles analyzing the works of Ruan,but most of which failed to introduce his script writing art,not to mention systematic and comprehensive analysis.This thesis,with the hope of providing reference for the development of contemporary script writing art,will analyze Ruan’s script writing art,conclude his script writing techniques and outlook on opera creation through in-depth interpretation of his opera works from the perspectives of role setting,plot setting and structural setting.This thesis is divided into four parts:The first part,acting as an introduction,first discusses the research significance of the topic,then summarizes the contemporary researches on his works,eventually clarifies the research methods and innovation.The second part focuses on the characters of Ruan’s works.It analyzes Ruan’s drama characters from three aspects:the settings of protagonists,supporting roles and character relationship.It discusses the role setting of the protagonists in four of Ruan’s work,such as a romantic scholar and two beautiful women(one in the style of Red Rose,another White Rose),a fallen scholar and a chivalrous thief.Ruan’s unique styles on character setting include:the shaping of non-stereotyped and varied supporting roles,the coherence of the clues,the humorous effect created by the supporting characters,and the varied character relationship settings according to different dramas.The third part focuses on the plot and structure of Ruan’s work.It analyzes Ruan’s plot and structure arrangement from three aspects:theme setting requirements,plot setting methods and structure arrangement techniques.Ruan’s unique styles on plot arrangement include:the innovation and uniqueness of the theme,conflicts made by the adept and varied use of unjust verdict and character personalities,good pace-control,and proper addition of lively occasions.Ruan’s unique styles on drama structure include:variations,plot setting according to the theme,twists and turns,hints and the utilization of props to connect the plot.The fourth part elaborates Ruan’s outlook on drama creation.It analyzes his outlook through the goal of pursuing entertainment effect,the awareness of seeking literary effect and stage effect,as well as the techniques of replacing clear description by vague description.The conclusion is ended with the summarizing of artistic achievements of Ruan’s script writing,providing reference for contemporary script writing.