Dramatis personae is a term used in plays to refer to a list of characters that appear in the play. This list is typically included at the beginning of the play and provides the names and brief descriptions of each character. The purpose of the dramatis personae is to give the audience an overview of the characters and their relationships before the play begins, which can help to clarify the action and make it easier to follow.
The dramatis personae typically includes the names of all the major characters, as well as any minor characters that play an important role in the story. It may also include information about the characters' relationships to one another, their backgrounds, or any other relevant details. However, it does not typically include the order of appearance or a cast list, as these are usually provided separately.
Overall, the dramatis personae serves as a helpful guide for the audience, allowing them to understand who the characters are and how they relate to one another before the play begins.