Structural Term

one of the vertical strata of the Dramatica structural chart

The relationship between levels (Elements, Variations, Types and Classes) of dramatic units is similar to turning up the power on a microscope: each has a different resolution with which to examine the story's problem. Classes take the broadest view and have the greatest structural impact on Genre. Types are more detailed and most directly affect the Plot. Variations are even more refined, most intensely influencing Theme, and Elements provide the greatest detail available in a story, concentrating on the qualities or traits of Characters.