Final answer:
The characteristics of melodrama include the use of music, moral simplicity with stock characters, special effects, an episodic format, and a focus on justice and happy endings.
Step-by-step explanation:
A melodrama is a form of theater that was popular in the 19th century. It is characterized by several key elements. First, there is the use of music, specifically leitmotifs, to enhance the emotional impact of the play.
Second, melodramas often feature a clear division between good and evil, with stock characters embodying these extremes. Third, there are often special effects such as fire, earthquakes, and explosions to create spectacle. Fourth, melodramas typically follow an episodic format, with a villain posing a threat and the hero and heroine eventually escaping and living happily ever after.
In addition to these characteristics, melodramas often feature ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. The plot tends to be straightforward and predictable, with a clear cause and effect chain of events. There is a strong emphasis on justice prevailing, and melodramas generally end with a happy ending.
The characters in melodrama are often melodramatic themselves, overplaying their emotions and leading to heightened drama. Overall, melodramas are known for their emotional impact and strong moral themes.