Character Quote by Franz Grillparzer
“It is open to question whether the highly individualized characters we find in Shakespeare are perhaps not detrimental to the dramatic effect. The human being disappears to the same degree as the individual emerges.”
About This Quote
Source Play: The Dream of a Ridiculous Man, 1841
Individual characters can dilute collective drama, making the human whole less visible.
In simple terms: Too many unique characters weaken the story’s unity.
Balance distinct personalities with a cohesive narrative.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- stage productions
- novel writing
- screenplay analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How to maintain character depth while preserving unity?
- What is the cost of too much uniqueness?
Overemphasis on individuality may alienate audiences.