ABSTRACT
This chapter begins by exploring one of the more popular synonyms for character: Identity. The word character derives from the Greek kharakter, which referred to a kind of stamping tool and went on to mean “a distinctive mark.” Drama’s interest is rarely in what choice a character makes. Drama is really only interested in what that choice reveals about the character. Alfred Simon breaks down the revelation of character into three distinct phases of mask, face, soul. The playing of mask, face, soul also leads to a certain dimensionality and virtuosity. This is a result of the fact that each modality of being is profoundly antithetical to the other. The audience should feel the shift from mask to face and face to soul. Learning more about the character with each shift. The goal of theatre is to reach the soul of the character.
