Drama is a literary composition involving conflict, action, and dialogue meant to be performed on stage before an audience. It can be defined as a "criticism of life" presented through characters and their interactions. There are different types of drama including tragedy, comedy, tragicomedy, farce, and melodrama. The key elements of drama are plot, character, setting, theme, style, symbolism, and use of techniques like irony, monologue, soliloquy, and aside. These elements and techniques are used to convey meaning, develop characters, and advance the story through action and dialogue on stage.