Erving Goffman was very accurate in his theory that we are all actors in a play called life. He realizes that everyone projects themselves a certain way in public, and then relaxes that image in private. I know I do this myself on a daily basis. Even the smallest actions like bathing and choosing clothes to wear is prepping for your "act". I always refer to putting on makeup as "putting on my face", because the real me doesn't really care for makeup but I know if I want to project attractiveness and confidence, makeup is usually expected, and sometimes even required. Dramaturgy has been around since long before the name was coined, and will continue to be around as long as humans are human. And I love that this video used Dexter as an example because eventually he becomes who he is projecting to be, and actually loses a lot of his sociopathic tendencies. Practice makes perfect. Rescue007
I agree, I dug the Dexter usage too, and it does make a good point. I think you could even broaden that last point beyond sociopaths and just say "practice makes perfect" for anything: being happy, working out, eating well AND good. If the world is in fact a stage, then we can play whatever role we want, basically however we want. That's a cooler aspect to the theory I hadn't thought of. Thanks for the help! LittleJimmyBond007
Indeed, The Dexter theory was a great example never really watched the show nor payed any attention until now. However "practice does make perfect" especially when instilled into us small segments at a time. I loved played dress up as a little girl which has molded me to dress up and be anything i want today. My roles switch frequently. Tricey007
I personally have never seen Dexter and didn't know anything about it, I will however be looking for it. I feel that even when you don't have a psychotic problem there is still a need to prepare for the next time you will encounter a large number of people or even people in general. I also agree that my roles change frequently. I wear a lot of hats in my life and I need to remember to change my hats instead of putting one on top of another. The world is, in fact, a stage
I fathom entirely what Erving Goffman is saying. So why is it, when I walk into someone's house, it is filthy with roaches and mold on the walls, food has been laying out, clothes on the floor and it smells horrific. This was an actual encounter of back stage interaction for me. Does this mean that they are always back stage and solely do not care about the front stage. They to me, might be themselves, but why? I know that I have to keep my house, car, and myself always looking arranged. I don't know any other way because I was taught to always clean my room, throw away food and wash dishes. I sometimes think that the front stage is not an act because that is the way, in my culture, I do things. On the other hand I am in no shape flawless and do get lazy, but when I am going out to an event, I put on my best, hair, dress, heels, make up, the whole nine yards because I do not want to portray myself in an abhorrence manner. It is my mask. Nurse007
When you went to that persons house they were in their backstage but if they knew you were coming they should have better prepared their front stage. In life we are all taught to keep our appearances, its just that some care more than others. Also there are unforeseen circumstances or situations that you can not change that may have hindered your friend from putting on their best performance. MMP007
I agree with Erving Goffman's theory with the stages. When we are at home we are comfortable in our own skin. No one looking or judging our looks, thoughts or words. When we are in other social spaces we have to make sure we look presentable for the occasion or people will be quick to judge, especially by appearance. Just think if we went to work in a dirty uniform and visually un-kept, bosses and co-workers would be looking at you like you had three heads. So i definitely agree that when you are in your front stage you are at your best appearance and playing the best role. MMP007
I see Goffman's theory how you do I totally agree with you. I imagined myself at home vs outside of home or at a special occasion vs me at school. We all show different roles or see them differently with other people but if you think about it everyone does have there on front stage and back stage. soccer007
What I find most interesting here is the idea that all your actions add up to a single overall "role." Humans contradict themselves so often that it's kind of hard to put a specific role in anyone's lap: "husband" (who may still imagine himself with other women), "boyfriend" (who may have someone on the side), etc. The additions of roles into consideration of personality also makes clear the use of stereotypes in everyday life, something the video didn't mention. For example, someone who is wearing dirty clothes may be lazy and irresponsible, but they may also be a farmer. This is a beginning sales technique ("don't judge people by how they look, assume they're all big fish"), so it's also interesting to see that play out in a more theoretical way. Our assumptions about people probably hold us back. Since the world's a stage, we can only really guess at what truly happens when they go backstage again at the end of the night. Goffman at once makes us more understandable, but also more mysterious.
Totally agree little jimmy! Never judge a book by it's cover. That dirty farmer may have been working all week long, long hours, some dirty work, and maybe he just didn't have time to do laundry because he had to get back out there! And maybe, just maybe, that farmer's house is more prestine than yours or mine! This is exactly how I think of it! blonndie007
True, this man could potentially be rich. I know some people that are wealthy, but have no idea how to dress, so I don't judge them by any means. Until you know the person you will know what their back and front stages are. I think it is acceptable for people to dress how they want and live how they want, after all culture does affect this a lot. nurse007
I totally agree that we all as people have a role front stage and back stage role. Front stage is certainly what definitely we want others and peer to think of us. Back stage is definitely are personal and relaxed life. We as people have several roles in life that we play sister, mother, daughter, wife, doctor, teacher, lawyer,etc... Dramaturgy has been around for a long time and is a great word for a base form of our natural roles as people in society. Helps with everyday social acts in life also structures us as people to help life normal lives. Awesome theory to fit into actual life. Tricey007
At times we can misjudge and misinterpret another persons lifestyle or way of living. Yet if we were giving their role or traded them shoes we would possibly act the same slightly different. The studies of socialization actually help us to understand , respond, and react differently when coming to a realization of others lifestyles and backgrounds. Just as well as our own. Tricey007
This honestly makes me wonder how many people out there are, in fact, like Dexter himself!!!! It worries me a little. Is the person that comes across as well dressed, well educated, really these things? Sometimes I think that many people put on a front. I myself would like to actually know that person, during back stage time, as well as, front stage. I think they may give off a great first impression, but is this really, truly who they are? Or just what they want the other person to think they are.
I am a stay at home mother of 3....ages 3, 6, and 9. They are days that I have to drag myself out of bed just to face the day. And yes.....sometimes, most of the time, I leave the house, not dressed to the nines and without any make up. I've got bigger and better things to worry about than who I may run into and what they may or may not think of me. Does this make me a bad person? Should someone think less of me because I'm not all dolled up? Speaking for myself, I don't judge people by their looks, if they have their face on that day or not....and I honestly don't think about what may or may not go on back stage for them! I think if you are a genuine person, it doesn't matter for me....whether you took all the time in the back stage, just to try and impress me on your front stage!
I get what this is teaching us. I guess I just think of it a little differently! blonndie007
Blonndie, this is a very interesting point. I know many of us apply makeup, a certain type of clothing, or utilize other props to create the role we wish to portray and act we want others to see. But there are times in our lives when we're simply unable, because we're too tired, or going through a lot. I don't believe it makes you a bad person in any sort of way, though. I doubt people would think less of you for it, either. You are still able to play and apply different roles to yourself without the use of makeup or being dolled up. It doesn't make you lesser of a person at all because of that. I have many female friends who dislike makeup and putting on that sort of 'appearance' or 'role' for others in general, wanting to appear more genuine or natural, and not feeling any need to impress others around them in that particular sense.
There is more to portraying a role than through makeup, though makeup is common with women. Even our body language, our accessories, the smiles or frowns we wear on our faces, and other subtle things influence how we portray ourselves to others in a subconscious sense. -Rainshadow007
The idea of Dramaturgy is fascinating to me. It had never occurred to me that we portray and play along with so many roles. I often find myself wondering why children eventually stop playing as they become adults, but I've realized now that in a sense, they still play, but it has deeper and serious consequences. A child playing house or some other game which allows him or her to imagine being in the shoes or role of another simply evolves into being able to socially fulfill and portray different roles as called for and needed, such as student, patient, friend, parent, colleague, peer, etc.
We don't leave behind our play as we grow, it simply evolves into something deeper and prepares us for navigating through our lives.
In a strange way, it makes life feel more exciting for me. Even though we are confined by or expected to remain within these roles that we are given throughout any day, now that I am aware of having roles and trying to play them well, it makes the whole thing seem kind of playful, as in... how well can I portray this particular role today? I have a book which is a collection of women's stories called "Who Am I This Time?" and I've always liked the title. I feel like it can apply here, that perhaps instead of one solid personality, we are multifaceted and shown in fragments. Who am I today? What will I be doing, etc? Is that odd? -- Rainshadow007
For me I see life as dramaturgy that’s why there is no doubt that life is a play involving tragedy and comedy and even action. Also I see every person in any society does this role assigned have to do it with respect conferred upon him space, but if he or she exceeded limits and show lack of respect for other people, then the society will get problem as views society as an arena of inequality that generates conflict and social will change, then next we will see that society is structured in ways to benefit a few at the expense of the majority.
For me I see life as dramaturgy that’s why there is no doubt that life is a play involving tragedy and comedy and even action. Also I see every person in any society does this role assigned have to do it with respect conferred upon him space, but if he or she exceeded limits and show lack of respect for other people, then the society will get problem as views society as an arena of inequality that generates conflict and social will change, then next we will see that society is structured in ways to benefit a few at the expense of the majority. hassan007
This is a good point. Dramaturgy theory presents individuals as actors with society as a stage, living under laws, rules, and "common senses" which make up the script. Not everyone chooses to go by the script, for a number of reasons (and I certainly feel some of those reasons are valid), but regardless of the situation, whenever there is any case of going against the script, even as small as being disrespectful toward an individual in one instant, there is always some discomfort felt by others. The majority of adults have learned to recognize the importance of this social script, but not all choose to follow it. Frog007
I feel that after watching this video I am spending more time examining my life and trying to pick out when I am "front stage" and when I am "back stage" throughout my day. I feel most of my time is spent front stage due to the fact that I live in a house with 7 other family members. This being said I feel that there could also be different levels of front stage. For example after the 4,5, and 6 year olds go to bed I feel like I am less on stage because there is less of an audience watching my every move. Children have this great habit of repeating everything you say and being part of a foster family means that most of what goes on in the case the 4 and 5 year old can't know about to the fullest extent.
The could be different stages of "front stage" in my opinion. For example there are the leads that constantly have people watching them and then there are those that don't really have lines but are on stage. I think that when the kids are awake that the parents are the main characters in the performance and after the younger children go to bed but the older ones are still up the parents become more of an additional character instead of the main one.
In a house where there are quite a few people it is hard to have much back stage time. The only real back stage time is when you are alone. This video is now making me stop and look to see when I am truly alone or with just my fiance and can breathe.
Yes I agree with you on a lot of your points, especially the "many different stages of front stage". Even people that are around close friends, or family, still tend to put on a bit of a show. Wearing nice clothes instead of your usual sweats, maybe even putting on a smile when you really don't feel like it, but you know you need to because people don't always want to see/know the real you. That's even how some people lose the "spark" in their relationships, because you got the guy with your front stage act, but then later all he sees is backstage and he's like "uh, this isn't what I expected". And eventually some people can get bitter because they eel like no one appreciates or loves the real them, just the façade. Rescue007
I really like how you explained your stages based on the time of the day. Your example of after the younger kids go to sleep and your position of stage at that time was very important in understanding why your stage was the way it was. I never thought of stages like this with children and what kind of impact they can have on your staqe. bean007
I agree with Goffman's view on Dramaturgy. The role of front stage reminded me of how people act outside of their house or around professionals. We put our front stage on with our makeup,dressed nice and hair done. In our house we don't care because we are around the people we see everyday other than people we don't see everyday or that were trying to impress. So other than getting ready for the day when were in the front stage. The back stage refers to us being at home looking our normal selves. I agree with life being that way. soccer007
I mentioned the same thing soccer007, our front stage is when we are at our job or a party and we know backstage is pretty much at home. The back stage can also be presented when you are not being watched. This can be in your car singing, something you normally wouldn’t do when you are around others. nurse007
Goffman's theory reminds me of a quote from Rant by Chuck Palahniuk: "You're a different human being to everybody you meet." I feel this quote embodies dramaturgy quite well because I am constantly aware of the differing ways in which I communicate with various people when I take on different "roles" throughout the day. I do agree with the theory of dramaturgy; every individual seems to speak a different "language," and some communicate better in certain ways than others, and so we alter our word choice, body language, etc. depending on which individual we are speaking to. And though many would not like to admit it, there are several scenarios that occur daily in which every one of us must filter out parts of ourselves and alter our persona for the benefit of ourselves and others. Frog007
After watching this clip based upon Goffman's theory of Dramaturgy, i realized more about the times when i am front stage verses when I'm back stage in my everyday life. As a full time student with a full time job, i don't always dress to impress when going out in public. When going out, i don't always feel the need to dress nicely because i am my own person. Regardless of who i might see, I'm perfectly fine with having lazy days. Most people have those days where they are very tired and just don't feel like getting all dolled up to just go to the grocery store, while a select few feel like they need to impress even on their worst days. As humans, we have the "i don't care" attitude when we don't feel like going the extra mile to impress someone who you may not even know. bean007
I think that you did a good explanation of Goffman's theory. I never thought about it in your point of view. I didn't think of using the term "lazy days". I totally agree with you. There are days where I don't want to have to go out of my way to dress to impress. On the other hand, there are days where I like looking my best. It really just depends on the weather and the day. "B.O.N007
I agree with Goffman's theory of Dramaturgy. I think that the front stage could be going to work, or going to a certain school that requires uniforms. In some school and work places, they require a certain uniform that everyone wears. For example, some private schools require kids to all wear a polo shirt and khakis on a day to day basis. On the other hand, if you were going to a business corporation you could choose whatever you would want to wear. This would lead to the back stage. There might be certain dress code, but you get to choose and have an open mind of what to wear. You aren't restricted to wearing the same thing every day; you would get to have an open mind. Some people think that this could be a good thing, and a bad thing. This leads to a lot of preparation before attending the job. Overall I agree with his theory and think that it is a good explanation of humans lives. B.O.N007
I somewhat agree with Goffmans theory, because people do put on a show for others while out in public with an audience, or friends or whatever. Front stage makes sense because your trying to make themselves appear different to other people than who they actually are behind closed doors. Most people put on a show for others, because everyone is different when they are by themselves compared to as being alone. Backstage is like being alone, not having to care what others think about you. You don't have to pretend to be someone else. You can be who you really are without worrying about being judged. lala007
I agree because that all makes sense. Front stage there are actors and actresses and props and plays going on all over the place, who can be them true selves when theres nothing but a play going on. Back stage there's no actress's there its just you, you have no one to play a role for and no roles to play so your true self can come out without worry of judgement. Psych007.
I completely understand Goffman's theory explaining this. Front stage is almost like going to work, school, going out to dinners, dances, ect. To do those things almost all people get ready to present themselves as to what they like and what is acceptable considering the situation. You are yourself during front stage but you do change to the people and places your around. Most people dont want to be the black sheep. Back stage is like being at home, where you can where anything you want, talk how you want because no one is around. You don't have to do your hair or put on make up, you can walk around in your pajamas all day if you want. You can do or say anything back stage because there's not a certain expectation besides your own that you have to reach. Pysch007
I totally agree with you. People have to put out a certain look while out in public (front stage) because there's roles and things that have standards. Backstage there's no other actors or stages you have to follow you can be yourself without any judgment. lala007
I completely understand this. Since many people show a face in front of others. which is just like when you get into a relationship with someone and they become more and more comfortable and then aren’t getting as dressed up or trying so hard to look their best just to impress the other. Same goes for a job interview or the first impression of a new friend. Who someone really is behind closed doors is often times different than how they appear. Basically everyone is an actor that’s hiding or pulling off a show at some point in their life. We act for attention in different ways and tend to either be ourselves or just a bit different to get our point across. People are constantly trying to impress someone whether its friends or complete strangers. To be back stage is to be put before others for judgment and be completely vulnerable which people typically avoid more than welcome in. Lou007
Feeling it now. Natural007
ReplyDeleteErving Goffman was very accurate in his theory that we are all actors in a play called life. He realizes that everyone projects themselves a certain way in public, and then relaxes that image in private. I know I do this myself on a daily basis. Even the smallest actions like bathing and choosing clothes to wear is prepping for your "act". I always refer to putting on makeup as "putting on my face", because the real me doesn't really care for makeup but I know if I want to project attractiveness and confidence, makeup is usually expected, and sometimes even required. Dramaturgy has been around since long before the name was coined, and will continue to be around as long as humans are human. And I love that this video used Dexter as an example because eventually he becomes who he is projecting to be, and actually loses a lot of his sociopathic tendencies. Practice makes perfect. Rescue007
ReplyDeleteI agree, I dug the Dexter usage too, and it does make a good point. I think you could even broaden that last point beyond sociopaths and just say "practice makes perfect" for anything: being happy, working out, eating well AND good. If the world is in fact a stage, then we can play whatever role we want, basically however we want. That's a cooler aspect to the theory I hadn't thought of. Thanks for the help! LittleJimmyBond007
DeleteIndeed, The Dexter theory was a great example never really watched the show nor payed any attention until now. However "practice does make perfect" especially when instilled into us small segments at a time. I loved played dress up as a little girl which has molded me to dress up and be anything i want today. My roles switch frequently. Tricey007
DeleteI personally have never seen Dexter and didn't know anything about it, I will however be looking for it. I feel that even when you don't have a psychotic problem there is still a need to prepare for the next time you will encounter a large number of people or even people in general. I also agree that my roles change frequently. I wear a lot of hats in my life and I need to remember to change my hats instead of putting one on top of another. The world is, in fact, a stage
DeleteHello_sweerie007
DeleteI fathom entirely what Erving Goffman is saying. So why is it, when I walk into someone's house, it is filthy with roaches and mold on the walls, food has been laying out, clothes on the floor and it smells horrific. This was an actual encounter of back stage interaction for me. Does this mean that they are always back stage and solely do not care about the front stage. They to me, might be themselves, but why? I know that I have to keep my house, car, and myself always looking arranged. I don't know any other way because I was taught to always clean my room, throw away food and wash dishes. I sometimes think that the front stage is not an act because that is the way, in my culture, I do things. On the other hand I am in no shape flawless and do get lazy, but when I am going out to an event, I put on my best, hair, dress, heels, make up, the whole nine yards because I do not want to portray myself in an abhorrence manner. It is my mask. Nurse007
ReplyDeleteWhen you went to that persons house they were in their backstage but if they knew you were coming they should have better prepared their front stage. In life we are all taught to keep our appearances, its just that some care more than others. Also there are unforeseen circumstances or situations that you can not change that may have hindered your friend from putting on their best performance. MMP007
DeleteI agree with Erving Goffman's theory with the stages. When we are at home we are comfortable in our own skin. No one looking or judging our looks, thoughts or words. When we are in other social spaces we have to make sure we look presentable for the occasion or people will be quick to judge, especially by appearance. Just think if we went to work in a dirty uniform and visually un-kept, bosses and co-workers would be looking at you like you had three heads. So i definitely agree that when you are in your front stage you are at your best appearance and playing the best role. MMP007
ReplyDeleteI see Goffman's theory how you do I totally agree with you. I imagined myself at home vs outside of home or at a special occasion vs me at school. We all show different roles or see them differently with other people but if you think about it everyone does have there on front stage and back stage. soccer007
DeleteWhat I find most interesting here is the idea that all your actions add up to a single overall "role." Humans contradict themselves so often that it's kind of hard to put a specific role in anyone's lap: "husband" (who may still imagine himself with other women), "boyfriend" (who may have someone on the side), etc. The additions of roles into consideration of personality also makes clear the use of stereotypes in everyday life, something the video didn't mention. For example, someone who is wearing dirty clothes may be lazy and irresponsible, but they may also be a farmer. This is a beginning sales technique ("don't judge people by how they look, assume they're all big fish"), so it's also interesting to see that play out in a more theoretical way. Our assumptions about people probably hold us back. Since the world's a stage, we can only really guess at what truly happens when they go backstage again at the end of the night. Goffman at once makes us more understandable, but also more mysterious.
ReplyDeleteLittleJimmyBond007
Totally agree little jimmy! Never judge a book by it's cover. That dirty farmer may have been working all week long, long hours, some dirty work, and maybe he just didn't have time to do laundry because he had to get back out there! And maybe, just maybe, that farmer's house is more prestine than yours or mine! This is exactly how I think of it! blonndie007
DeleteTrue, this man could potentially be rich. I know some people that are wealthy, but have no idea how to dress, so I don't judge them by any means. Until you know the person you will know what their back and front stages are. I think it is acceptable for people to dress how they want and live how they want, after all culture does affect this a lot. nurse007
DeleteI totally agree that we all as people have a role front stage and back stage role. Front stage is certainly what definitely we want others and peer to think of us. Back stage is definitely are personal and relaxed life. We as people have several roles in life that we play sister, mother, daughter, wife, doctor, teacher, lawyer,etc... Dramaturgy has been around for a long time and is a great word for a base form of our natural roles as people in society. Helps with everyday social acts in life also structures us as people to help life normal lives. Awesome theory to fit into actual life. Tricey007
ReplyDeleteAt times we can misjudge and misinterpret another persons lifestyle or way of living. Yet if we were giving their role or traded them shoes we would possibly act the same slightly different. The studies of socialization actually help us to understand , respond, and react differently when coming to a realization of others lifestyles and backgrounds. Just as well as our own. Tricey007
ReplyDeleteThis honestly makes me wonder how many people out there are, in fact, like Dexter himself!!!! It worries me a little. Is the person that comes across as well dressed, well educated, really these things? Sometimes I think that many people put on a front. I myself would like to actually know that person, during back stage time, as well as, front stage. I think they may give off a great first impression, but is this really, truly who they are? Or just what they want the other person to think they are.
ReplyDeleteI am a stay at home mother of 3....ages 3, 6, and 9. They are days that I have to drag myself out of bed just to face the day. And yes.....sometimes, most of the time, I leave the house, not dressed to the nines and without any make up. I've got bigger and better things to worry about than who I may run into and what they may or may not think of me. Does this make me a bad person? Should someone think less of me because I'm not all dolled up? Speaking for myself, I don't judge people by their looks, if they have their face on that day or not....and I honestly don't think about what may or may not go on back stage for them! I think if you are a genuine person, it doesn't matter for me....whether you took all the time in the back stage, just to try and impress me on your front stage!
I get what this is teaching us. I guess I just think of it a little differently! blonndie007
Blonndie, this is a very interesting point. I know many of us apply makeup, a certain type of clothing, or utilize other props to create the role we wish to portray and act we want others to see. But there are times in our lives when we're simply unable, because we're too tired, or going through a lot. I don't believe it makes you a bad person in any sort of way, though. I doubt people would think less of you for it, either. You are still able to play and apply different roles to yourself without the use of makeup or being dolled up. It doesn't make you lesser of a person at all because of that. I have many female friends who dislike makeup and putting on that sort of 'appearance' or 'role' for others in general, wanting to appear more genuine or natural, and not feeling any need to impress others around them in that particular sense.
DeleteThere is more to portraying a role than through makeup, though makeup is common with women. Even our body language, our accessories, the smiles or frowns we wear on our faces, and other subtle things influence how we portray ourselves to others in a subconscious sense. -Rainshadow007
The idea of Dramaturgy is fascinating to me. It had never occurred to me that we portray and play along with so many roles. I often find myself wondering why children eventually stop playing as they become adults, but I've realized now that in a sense, they still play, but it has deeper and serious consequences. A child playing house or some other game which allows him or her to imagine being in the shoes or role of another simply evolves into being able to socially fulfill and portray different roles as called for and needed, such as student, patient, friend, parent, colleague, peer, etc.
ReplyDeleteWe don't leave behind our play as we grow, it simply evolves into something deeper and prepares us for navigating through our lives.
In a strange way, it makes life feel more exciting for me. Even though we are confined by or expected to remain within these roles that we are given throughout any day, now that I am aware of having roles and trying to play them well, it makes the whole thing seem kind of playful, as in... how well can I portray this particular role today? I have a book which is a collection of women's stories called "Who Am I This Time?" and I've always liked the title. I feel like it can apply here, that perhaps instead of one solid personality, we are multifaceted and shown in fragments. Who am I today? What will I be doing, etc? Is that odd? -- Rainshadow007
For me I see life as dramaturgy that’s why there is no doubt that life is a play involving tragedy and comedy and even action. Also I see every person in any society does this role assigned have to do it with respect conferred upon him space, but if he or she exceeded limits and show lack of respect for other people, then the society will get problem as views society as an arena of inequality that generates conflict and social will change, then next we will see that society is structured in ways to benefit a few at the expense of the majority.
ReplyDeleteFor me I see life as dramaturgy that’s why there is no doubt that life is a play involving tragedy and comedy and even action. Also I see every person in any society does this role assigned have to do it with respect conferred upon him space, but if he or she exceeded limits and show lack of respect for other people, then the society will get problem as views society as an arena of inequality that generates conflict and social will change, then next we will see that society is structured in ways to benefit a few at the expense of the majority. hassan007
ReplyDeleteThis is a good point. Dramaturgy theory presents individuals as actors with society as a stage, living under laws, rules, and "common senses" which make up the script. Not everyone chooses to go by the script, for a number of reasons (and I certainly feel some of those reasons are valid), but regardless of the situation, whenever there is any case of going against the script, even as small as being disrespectful toward an individual in one instant, there is always some discomfort felt by others. The majority of adults have learned to recognize the importance of this social script, but not all choose to follow it. Frog007
DeleteI feel that after watching this video I am spending more time examining my life and trying to pick out when I am "front stage" and when I am "back stage" throughout my day. I feel most of my time is spent front stage due to the fact that I live in a house with 7 other family members. This being said I feel that there could also be different levels of front stage. For example after the 4,5, and 6 year olds go to bed I feel like I am less on stage because there is less of an audience watching my every move. Children have this great habit of repeating everything you say and being part of a foster family means that most of what goes on in the case the 4 and 5 year old can't know about to the fullest extent.
ReplyDeleteThe could be different stages of "front stage" in my opinion. For example there are the leads that constantly have people watching them and then there are those that don't really have lines but are on stage. I think that when the kids are awake that the parents are the main characters in the performance and after the younger children go to bed but the older ones are still up the parents become more of an additional character instead of the main one.
In a house where there are quite a few people it is hard to have much back stage time. The only real back stage time is when you are alone. This video is now making me stop and look to see when I am truly alone or with just my fiance and can breathe.
Yes I agree with you on a lot of your points, especially the "many different stages of front stage". Even people that are around close friends, or family, still tend to put on a bit of a show. Wearing nice clothes instead of your usual sweats, maybe even putting on a smile when you really don't feel like it, but you know you need to because people don't always want to see/know the real you. That's even how some people lose the "spark" in their relationships, because you got the guy with your front stage act, but then later all he sees is backstage and he's like "uh, this isn't what I expected". And eventually some people can get bitter because they eel like no one appreciates or loves the real them, just the façade. Rescue007
DeleteI really like how you explained your stages based on the time of the day. Your example of after the younger kids go to sleep and your position of stage at that time was very important in understanding why your stage was the way it was. I never thought of stages like this with children and what kind of impact they can have on your staqe. bean007
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ReplyDeleteI agree with Goffman's view on Dramaturgy. The role of front stage reminded me of how people act outside of their house or around professionals. We put our front stage on with our makeup,dressed nice and hair done. In our house we don't care because we are around the people we see everyday other than people we don't see everyday or that were trying to impress. So other than getting ready for the day when were in the front stage. The back stage refers to us being at home looking our normal selves. I agree with life being that way. soccer007
ReplyDeleteI mentioned the same thing soccer007, our front stage is when we are at our job or a party and we know backstage is pretty much at home. The back stage can also be presented when you are not being watched. This can be in your car singing, something you normally wouldn’t do when you are around others. nurse007
DeleteGoffman's theory reminds me of a quote from Rant by Chuck Palahniuk: "You're a different human being to everybody you meet." I feel this quote embodies dramaturgy quite well because I am constantly aware of the differing ways in which I communicate with various people when I take on different "roles" throughout the day. I do agree with the theory of dramaturgy; every individual seems to speak a different "language," and some communicate better in certain ways than others, and so we alter our word choice, body language, etc. depending on which individual we are speaking to. And though many would not like to admit it, there are several scenarios that occur daily in which every one of us must filter out parts of ourselves and alter our persona for the benefit of ourselves and others. Frog007
ReplyDeleteAfter watching this clip based upon Goffman's theory of Dramaturgy, i realized more about the times when i am front stage verses when I'm back stage in my everyday life. As a full time student with a full time job, i don't always dress to impress when going out in public. When going out, i don't always feel the need to dress nicely because i am my own person. Regardless of who i might see, I'm perfectly fine with having lazy days. Most people have those days where they are very tired and just don't feel like getting all dolled up to just go to the grocery store, while a select few feel like they need to impress even on their worst days. As humans, we have the "i don't care" attitude when we don't feel like going the extra mile to impress someone who you may not even know. bean007
ReplyDeleteI think that you did a good explanation of Goffman's theory. I never thought about it in your point of view. I didn't think of using the term "lazy days". I totally agree with you. There are days where I don't want to have to go out of my way to dress to impress. On the other hand, there are days where I like looking my best. It really just depends on the weather and the day. "B.O.N007
DeleteI agree with Goffman's theory of Dramaturgy. I think that the front stage could be going to work, or going to a certain school that requires uniforms. In some school and work places, they require a certain uniform that everyone wears. For example, some private schools require kids to all wear a polo shirt and khakis on a day to day basis. On the other hand, if you were going to a business corporation you could choose whatever you would want to wear. This would lead to the back stage. There might be certain dress code, but you get to choose and have an open mind of what to wear. You aren't restricted to wearing the same thing every day; you would get to have an open mind. Some people think that this could be a good thing, and a bad thing. This leads to a lot of preparation before attending the job. Overall I agree with his theory and think that it is a good explanation of humans lives. B.O.N007
ReplyDeleteI somewhat agree with Goffmans theory, because people do put on a show for others while out in public with an audience, or friends or whatever. Front stage makes sense because your trying to make themselves appear different to other people than who they actually are behind closed doors. Most people put on a show for others, because everyone is different when they are by themselves compared to as being alone. Backstage is like being alone, not having to care what others think about you. You don't have to pretend to be someone else. You can be who you really are without worrying about being judged. lala007
ReplyDeleteI agree because that all makes sense. Front stage there are actors and actresses and props and plays going on all over the place, who can be them true selves when theres nothing but a play going on. Back stage there's no actress's there its just you, you have no one to play a role for and no roles to play so your true self can come out without worry of judgement. Psych007.
DeleteI completely understand Goffman's theory explaining this. Front stage is almost like going to work, school, going out to dinners, dances, ect. To do those things almost all people get ready to present themselves as to what they like and what is acceptable considering the situation. You are yourself during front stage but you do change to the people and places your around. Most people dont want to be the black sheep. Back stage is like being at home, where you can where anything you want, talk how you want because no one is around. You don't have to do your hair or put on make up, you can walk around in your pajamas all day if you want. You can do or say anything back stage because there's not a certain expectation besides your own that you have to reach. Pysch007
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you. People have to put out a certain look while out in public (front stage) because there's roles and things that have standards. Backstage there's no other actors or stages you have to follow you can be yourself without any judgment. lala007
DeleteI completely understand this. Since many people show a face in front of others. which is just like when you get into a relationship with someone and they become more and more comfortable and then aren’t getting as dressed up or trying so hard to look their best just to impress the other. Same goes for a job interview or the first impression of a new friend. Who someone really is behind closed doors is often times different than how they appear. Basically everyone is an actor that’s hiding or pulling off a show at some point in their life. We act for attention in different ways and tend to either be ourselves or just a bit different to get our point across. People are constantly trying to impress someone whether its friends or complete strangers. To be back stage is to be put before others for judgment and be completely vulnerable which people typically avoid more than welcome in.
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