Courtroom as Theatre

“All the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players.” - Shakespeare

Curtain up

In the courtroom, you, your client, and your case are in the spotlight. The judge and jury are your audience and toughest critics. They’re expecting a good show, so make sure you give it to them. The Courtroom as Theatre shows you how modeling your trial presentations on the common elements of Greek tragedies can make them more persuasive and effective.

The six pillars

The Greek philosopher Aristotle first defined the key elements of an ideal tragedy or drama. His analysis was so enduring that it became the guideline Shakespeare and other notable European playwrights used.
Aristotle identified six elements of drama in order of importance:

• Plot
• Character
• Thought
• Diction (or dialogue)
• Melody
• Spectacle

Discover how incorporating these storytelling elements into your courtroom presentations can make them more organized, eloquent, and impactful.

Litigating in the limelight

Plot is the most central dramatic element, according to Aristotle, and plays a key role in making your presentation come alive for the jury. Understand the five acts of strong theatrical plots, and learn how to create a main theme or message for your audience to follow.

Characters – and by extension, dialogue – are also vital to the success of the story. Find guidance for making your client the main character of the story. Know how questioning witnesses frames the story’s dialogue. In addition, explore how the spectacle of the trial itself effects your presentation.