If the action of a play is serious but ends happily and the focus is more on what happens than how it happens, the play is probably classified as a

a
farce
b
tragedy
c
melodrama
d
comedy

d) comedy

If the action of a play is serious but ends happily and the focus is more on what happens than how it happens, the play is probably classified as a comedy.

To determine the classification of a play based on its characteristics, we need to understand the definitions of the different genres.

A. Farce: Farce is a comedic genre that relies on exaggerated and absurd situations, often involving mistaken identities, slapstick humor, and fast-paced action.

B. Tragedy: Tragedy is a genre that focuses on serious and somber themes, often exploring the downfall of the main character or characters due to flaws in their character or external forces.

C. Melodrama: Melodrama is a genre that exaggerates emotions and situations, often featuring larger-than-life characters, moral dilemmas, and sensational events.

D. Comedy: Comedy is a genre that aims to entertain and amuse the audience through humor, often involving witty dialogue, humorous situations, and light-hearted themes.

Given the information provided in the question, where the action of the play is serious but ends happily and the focus is more on what happens than how it happens, the most appropriate classification would be:

D. Comedy.

In this case, the play doesn't have the characteristics of a tragedy, which typically features a serious tone throughout and ends in a tragic or unfortunate way. It also doesn't fit the description of a farce, with its reliance on exaggerated and absurd situations. Melodramas often emphasize the emotional and sensational aspects of the story more than the plot itself, which contrasts with a play that focuses more on what happens rather than how it happens.