Which type of literary work would most likely fall into the 'drama' genre?

The correct answer is a play, as it is the quintessential form of dramatic literature. Drama is characterized by its intended performance on a stage, featuring dialogue and action, which showcases the conflicts and emotions of characters in a visual and auditory format. This genre often explores complex themes through various characters and plots, allowing audiences to engage with the story in a dynamic way.

A novel typically consists of narrative prose and is meant for reading rather than performance, whereas a poem may focus on rhythm, meter, and emotional resonance but does not inherently possess the structural elements required for dramatic representation. An essay, on the other hand, is a written composition that presents an argument or opinion and does not involve characters or dialogue, characteristics essential to the drama genre. Therefore, a play stands out as the primary example of a work that embodies the features associated with drama.