Dramatization in Proverbs

The article deals with a class of proverbs which express their instructive idea by means of a staged presentation. Such presentation is described in three aspects – structural, semantic and pragmatic. Structurally, dramatization in proverbs is shown in their dialogue form usually including someone's direct speech. Semantically, it is manifested in contrast and paradoxical cause and consequence combination. Pragmatically, it looks like a micro-performance with actors who personify typical ways of behavior – usually negative ones – showing them in humorous or ironic keys.