Drama and communication : a Pentadic analysis of A Texas trilogy

This thesis explores the link between human communication and drama. The methodology chosen for the study was Kenneth Burke's Pentad format. This paper examines Preston Jones' A Texas Trilogy in order to demonstrate the relationship between communication concepts and drama. The focus of this analysis is limited to the Pentadic strain, scene, and the effects Bradleyville has upon the interaction within the plays. Throughout the study Bradleyville is examined with regard to three major communication concepts; group communication in The Last Meeting of the Knights of the White Magnolia, intrapersonal communication in Lu Ann Hampton Laverty Oberlander, and interpersonal communication in The Oldest Living Graduate.

The first chapter introduces Kenneth Burke and explains the Pentad's value for exploring the relationship between drama and communication. The second chapter discusses Preston Jones and includes a brief history of A Texas Trilogy. The third chapter analyzes Bradleyville and its relationship to communication concepts in the plays. The last chapter summarizes the paper and reiterates its implications.