What genre does "drama" refer to in literature?

"Drama" in literature specifically refers to a genre intended for performance on stage. This genre is characterized by its use of dialogue and action to tell a story, often involving conflict and emotion among characters. Dramas are written to be enacted by actors, bringing the written script to life in front of an audience, which distinguishes them from other literary forms like poetry, fictional narratives, or persuasive writing.

The nature of drama lies in its dramatic structure, typically divided into acts and scenes, and it often includes elements such as monologues and dialogues that are crafted to evoke a response from the audience. Unlike a type of poetry, which focuses more on rhythmic and stylistic expression, or a fictional narrative, which may not necessarily be meant for staging, drama is fundamentally about performance. Additionally, while persuasive writing seeks to convince readers through argumentation and evidence, it does not share the performative aspect that defines dramatic literature.