What is the purpose of exposition in a play?

The purpose of exposition in a play is to provide necessary background information and context to the audience. It serves to establish the setting, characters, and their relationships, as well as to introduce any key conflicts or themes that will be explored throughout the play. Exposition can establish the time and place of the story, the characters' backgrounds and motivations, and provide any necessary historical or social context. It helps the audience understand and engage with the play by giving them the information they need to follow the story and its subsequent developments.