Communication structures

If we wish to get a better understanding of drama, it is perhaps perhaps best that we take a closer look at the communication structures. The first observation we can make is that there are two systems of communication: the internal and the external.

Figure 4.1: Dramatic communication structures

The following diagram is a rough picture of the communication systems involved in drama. We see that there are communication channels between the different dramatic figures ${\rm P}_1, \ldots,{\rm P}_n$. The channels form the internal communication system. Such communication is necessary interaction between differing dramatic figures.

As we can see from the diagram, there are also channels open between the players and the audience. This set of channels is called the external communication system. The need for this system is obvious. Each exchange of signs takes place within one of these systems.

How does music fit into these structures? Music functions as a conduit for communication. In which capacity it works it works is determined by the function of the utterance^4.13.

The referential function is one of the most frequent functions of an utterance. In this case the music is not only used by the speakers as a means of self-reference but also as a means of reference to some other outside object, as can be seen in figure 4.2 on page .

The conative function is associated with the establishment of a channel of communication. Music is used in different ways in the internal and the external communication systems, as can be seen in figures 4.3 and 4.4 on pages  and 

The expressive or emotive function is used to communicate the feelings of one figure either to another figure or to the public. How music fits within this kind of speech can be seen in figure 4.5 on page 

The phatic function is employed to keep a channel of communication open. Music is often employed with this function and we can see how it is used in figure 4.6 on page 4.6^4.14

Figure 4.2: Referential function

Figure 4.3: Conative function

Figure 4.4: Conative function

Figure 4.5: Expressive function

Figure 4.6: Phatic function

From this diagrams we can see that normally the dramatis figuræ are not aware that they are singing. As music is used only to inform the audience of certain things, it is therefore an excellent example of what are called epic communication structures.