In plays, how are acts defined?

Acts in plays are defined as sections that divide the overall work into distinct segments. Each act typically represents a significant part of the narrative, providing structure and allowing for the development of themes, characters, and plot progression. By dividing the play into acts, playwrights enable the audience to better follow the storyline and understand the unfolding action and character development at a more digestible pace. This structural element is crucial for the pacing of the drama, creating moments for tension, resolution, and transitions in the narrative arc. Each act can encompass various scenes, which are smaller divisions that take place in a specific location or time, further enriching the storytelling experience.