Based on how the stage directions are used in this excerpt from act 1 scene 1 of richard iii what was likely the main purpose of providing stage directions in drama

Analyze this lead sentence. in moscow on friday, jewish activist anatoly scharansky was sentenced to thirteen years in prison for high treason because of his activities as a spy for the united states. match the answer to the question. 1.why? jewish activist anatoly scharansky 2.who? sentenced to 13 years in prison 3. what? for high treason: spying for the united states 4.where? friday 5.when? moscow