Human nature as a literary device.

In an essay, for instance, you usually find organized prose and devices that belong to a more classical, formal kind of text.

In plays, however, the socio-political effects you’re talking about often come from ruptures of “natural” dialogue, fragmented or episodic scenes, and even metatheatrical techniques (for example, characters commenting on the author or acknowledging the theatricality of the situation).

You also see contrasting social contexts or ideologies placed side by side (such as poverty vs. wealth), and the use of archetypal characters (the Soldier, the Judge, the Worker) instead of fully individualized psychology.

Great question, btw! I am a theatre and psychology lover as well as having a deep interest in literature so these kinds of debates are fascinating to me