6.3 Emergence of Sentimental Comedy and Domestic Tragedy
4 min read•july 30, 2024
The 18th century saw a shift in theatrical tastes, with and gaining popularity. These genres reflected the values of the growing middle class, emphasizing moral lessons and in relatable settings.
Sentimental comedy focused on virtue rewarded, while domestic tragedy explored moral failings. Both used more and to convey their messages. These new forms shaped public discourse on morality and social norms.
Sentimental Comedy and Domestic Tragedy
Origins and Development
Top images from around the web for Origins and Development
A "theatre" of medicine and surgery. Watercolour by Johann Heinrich Ramberg, ca. 1800 ... View original
Is this image relevant?
A "theatre" of medicine and surgery. Watercolour by Johann Heinrich Ramberg, ca. 1800 ... View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 1
Top images from around the web for Origins and Development
A "theatre" of medicine and surgery. Watercolour by Johann Heinrich Ramberg, ca. 1800 ... View original
Is this image relevant?
A "theatre" of medicine and surgery. Watercolour by Johann Heinrich Ramberg, ca. 1800 ... View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 1
- Sentimental comedy emerged in early 18th century as reaction to bawdy Restoration comedies
- Emphasized moral lessons and emotional appeal
- 's "" (1722) set standard for genre
- Domestic tragedy evolved from earlier tragedy forms
- Focused on struggles of middle-class characters
- 's "" (1731) influenced subsequent playwrights (England and Europe)
- Both genres gained prominence in mid-18th century
- Playwrights like and contributed to development
- Rise coincided with growing middle-class audience and
- Reflected changing social dynamics and cultural shifts
Key Characteristics
- Sentimental comedy centered on virtue rewarded
- Domestic tragedy explored consequences of moral failings or societal pressures
- Both genres emphasized emotional appeal and
- Domestic tragedy tended to have more severe consequences for characters
- Language more naturalistic compared to earlier dramatic forms
- Reflected everyday speech of middle class
- Incorporated elements of
- Domestic tragedy typically more explicit in societal critique
- Stock characters developed for each genre
- Sentimental comedy (, , )
- Domestic tragedy (, , )
Themes and Conventions of Sentimental Comedy vs Domestic Tragedy
Plot Structures and Character Dynamics
- Sentimental comedy featured with obstacles to overcome
- Often included misunderstandings, secret identities, or parental opposition
- Domestic tragedy centered on or
- Explored themes of , , and
- Both genres emphasized character development and moral growth
- Sentimental comedy characters often reformed or revealed true virtuous nature
- Domestic tragedy protagonists faced and consequences
- Use of to heighten emotional impact
- Audience often aware of information unknown to characters
- Incorporation of to reinforce main themes
- Secondary characters often mirrored or contrasted with protagonists
Moral and Emotional Elements
- Both genres aimed to evoke strong emotional responses from audience
- Sentimental comedy elicited tears of joy and sympathy
- Domestic tragedy provoked pity and fear
- Emphasis on moral dilemmas and ethical choices
- Characters faced conflicts between duty and desire
- Use of and to reveal inner thoughts and feelings
- Allowed for deeper exploration of characters' motivations
- Incorporation of and
- Emotional highpoints designed to move audience (deathbed confessions, reunions)
- Exploration of themes like , , and
- Often tied to broader social and moral messages
Audience Tastes for Sentimental Comedy and Domestic Tragedy
Cultural and Social Factors
- Rising middle class sought entertainment reflecting their values and experiences
- Demanded more relatable characters and situations
- Enlightenment ideals influenced audience expectations
- Valued drama that could educate and entertain simultaneously
- Concept of gained importance in 18th-century culture
- Emphasized emotional responsiveness and moral sentiment
- Growing literacy rates and expanding print culture contributed to changing tastes
- Readers sought similar themes and styles in theatrical productions
- Influence of novels (particularly Samuel Richardson) on dramatic forms
- Increased focus on and domestic settings
- Public backlash against perceived immorality of Restoration comedy
- Created demand for more "respectable" theatrical entertainment
Theatrical and Literary Trends
- Shift away from classical and heroic subjects towards contemporary issues
- Audiences connected with stories reflecting their own lives and concerns
- Increased interest in realistic portrayals of everyday life
- Domestic settings and middle-class characters gained prominence
- Growing appreciation for emotional depth and complexity in characters
- Moved beyond stock types to more nuanced portrayals
- Desire for moral instruction through entertainment
- Plays expected to impart valuable life lessons and reinforce social values
- Influence of periodicals and essays on public discourse
- Shaped expectations for social commentary in dramatic works
- Rise of actor-managers who catered to popular tastes
- Produced plays that appealed to middle-class sensibilities and values
Social and Moral Implications of Sentimental Comedy and Domestic Tragedy
Cultural Impact and Values
- Promoted middle-class values and virtues
- Reinforced ideas of social mobility through moral behavior
- Addressed contemporary social issues
- Explored themes like marriage, family dynamics, economic pressures
- Challenged traditional class distinctions in drama
- Presented middle-class characters as worthy subjects of serious theatrical treatment
- Shaped public discourse on morality and social norms
- Served as form of cultural education for audiences
- Reflected and reinforced emerging capitalist ideologies
- Emphasized individual virtue and personal responsibility
- Contributed to development of melodrama and social realism in 19th-century theater
- Influenced evolution of modern drama
Critical Reception and Debates
- Critics argued excessive sentimentality could lead to emotional manipulation
- Questioned effectiveness of genuine moral instruction
- Debates over appropriate balance between entertainment and didacticism
- Some praised educational value, others criticized heavy-handed moralizing
- Discussions on representation of social issues in drama
- Questions of accuracy and potential for inspiring social change
- Concerns about potential negative effects on audience sensibilities
- Fears of encouraging oversensitivity or unrealistic expectations
- Examination of and family dynamics portrayed in plays
- Reflected and sometimes challenged societal norms
- Analysis of plays' treatment of economic themes and class mobility
- Considered implications for social stability and aspirations
Key Terms to Review (49)
18th-century theatre: 18th-century theatre refers to the theatrical practices and dramatic works that emerged during the 1700s, particularly in Europe and America. This period saw a shift towards more accessible forms of drama, including sentimental comedies and domestic tragedies, which reflected changing societal values and the growing interest in the emotional experiences of ordinary people. The focus on relatable themes and characters marked a significant evolution in the way stories were told on stage.
A new way to pay old debts: A new way to pay old debts refers to a literary concept where characters confront and resolve their past wrongdoings or obligations, often in a sentimental or redemptive manner. This idea often explores themes of morality, justice, and the importance of personal responsibility, which became central to sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy during their emergence in theatre.
Asides: Asides are dramatic devices where a character speaks directly to the audience, typically revealing their thoughts or feelings while other characters on stage remain unaware. This technique allows for deeper insight into a character's inner life, creates a sense of intimacy with the audience, and can introduce humor or tension within a scene. Asides are particularly effective in shaping the emotional landscape of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, as they can reveal the contrast between public persona and private emotions.
Audience catharsis: Audience catharsis refers to the emotional release or purging that viewers experience while watching a performance, allowing them to connect deeply with the characters and story. This emotional experience is often facilitated through dramatic tension and resolution, which evokes feelings of pity, fear, or empathy. In the context of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, audience catharsis becomes crucial as these genres aim to engage the audience's emotions profoundly, leading to a transformative experience by the end of the performance.
Class struggles: Class struggles refer to the conflict between different social classes, primarily driven by economic inequalities and competing interests. These struggles often manifest in literature and drama as a way to explore societal tensions, particularly those between the upper and lower classes. In the context of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, class struggles highlight the emotional and moral dilemmas faced by characters caught in these conflicts, shedding light on broader social issues.
Corruption: Corruption refers to the moral decay or degradation of individuals or systems, often resulting in dishonest or unethical behavior, particularly in politics and society. In the context of emerging forms of drama, it highlights the flaws and failings of characters and societal structures, often driving the narrative towards a moral reckoning or social critique.
David Garrick: David Garrick was a prominent English actor, playwright, and theatre manager in the 18th century, renowned for revolutionizing acting and theatrical production. He played a pivotal role in the emergence of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, advocating for more naturalistic performances that emphasized emotional authenticity over exaggerated styles. His influence helped shape the modern approach to acting and stagecraft, aligning with the societal changes of his time.
Domestic Tragedy: Domestic tragedy is a genre of drama that focuses on the lives and struggles of ordinary individuals, often within the confines of the home or family setting. This type of tragedy emphasizes emotional and moral conflicts that arise in domestic life, making the characters relatable and their experiences deeply impactful. By highlighting the struggles faced by common people, domestic tragedy moves away from the epic narratives of nobility and creates a poignant exploration of human suffering.
Downfall: Downfall refers to the decline or fall from a position of power, success, or good fortune. It often entails a series of misfortunes or errors that lead to a character's ultimate failure or tragic end. In the context of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, downfall becomes a critical element that drives the narrative, illustrating the fragility of happiness and the impact of societal expectations on individuals.
Dramatic Irony: Dramatic irony is a literary device where the audience knows more about a situation than the characters do, creating tension and a deeper emotional connection to the narrative. This contrast between the character's understanding and the audience's knowledge often enhances plot development and can lead to profound moments of tragedy or comedy.
Edward Moore: Edward Moore was an English playwright and poet active in the 18th century, best known for his contributions to sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy. His works are characterized by their emotional depth and focus on moral dilemmas, which helped shape the evolution of theatre during a time when audiences began to favor more relatable and heartfelt narratives over purely comedic or tragic forms.
Emotional Appeal: Emotional appeal refers to a persuasive technique that aims to evoke an emotional response from the audience. This technique is often used in storytelling to engage the audience's feelings, making them more invested in the characters and their journeys. In the context of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, emotional appeal plays a crucial role in connecting viewers to the themes of love, loss, and moral dilemmas, ultimately aiming to elicit empathy and provoke reflection.
Empathetic engagement: Empathetic engagement refers to the process by which audiences connect emotionally and cognitively with characters and their experiences in a performance. This connection leads to a deeper understanding of the characters' emotions, motivations, and conflicts, often prompting a reflective response from the audience. In the context of storytelling, particularly in sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, empathetic engagement helps to evoke sympathy and foster a personal investment in the narrative's outcome.
Enlightenment Era Values: Enlightenment era values refer to the ideas that emerged during the 17th and 18th centuries, emphasizing reason, individualism, and skepticism of authority. These values significantly influenced cultural and artistic movements, including the development of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, which focused on human emotion, moral dilemmas, and the everyday lives of ordinary people.
Exposition: Exposition is the part of a narrative that provides essential background information to the audience, helping them understand the context, characters, and setting of the story. It serves as a foundation for the plot by introducing key elements and establishing the stakes, creating a framework within which the unfolding action makes sense. This component is crucial in guiding the audience's interpretation and emotional engagement as the story progresses.
Fallen protagonist: A fallen protagonist is a character who experiences a moral decline or downfall, often as a result of their own flaws or choices. This term is significant in understanding the complexities of character development, particularly in narratives that explore themes of virtue, vice, and redemption. In the context of certain theatrical forms, such as sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, fallen protagonists embody the struggles between societal expectations and personal desires, leading to dramatic tension and emotional engagement with the audience.
Family conflicts: Family conflicts refer to disagreements, disputes, or tensions that arise among family members, often stemming from differences in values, beliefs, or interests. In the realm of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, these conflicts play a central role, revealing the complexities of familial relationships and the emotional struggles individuals face within their own households. The portrayal of these conflicts not only drives the narrative but also highlights themes of love, betrayal, and reconciliation.
Financial struggles: Financial struggles refer to the challenges individuals or families face when managing their monetary resources, often leading to difficulties in meeting basic needs such as housing, food, and healthcare. These struggles can be influenced by various factors like unemployment, low income, and unexpected expenses, and are prominently depicted in sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, where characters often navigate the harsh realities of their economic situations.
Five-act structure: The five-act structure is a dramatic framework that organizes a play into five distinct sections, traditionally used to shape narratives in a cohesive way. This structure includes the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and denouement, each serving a specific purpose in developing the story and characters. It is particularly significant in sentimental comedies and domestic tragedies as it enhances emotional engagement and thematic depth.
Forgiveness: Forgiveness is the process of letting go of resentment or anger towards someone for a perceived wrongdoing. It often involves a shift in perspective that allows individuals to move past negative emotions and restore relationships. In the context of certain dramatic genres, forgiveness can serve as a pivotal theme that drives character development, resolution, and moral lessons.
Gender Roles: Gender roles refer to the societal norms and expectations that dictate the behaviors, attitudes, and responsibilities deemed appropriate for individuals based on their perceived gender. These roles often influence characters in plays, shaping their actions, motivations, and relationships, especially in genres like sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, as well as in restoration comedy, where traditional gender dynamics are often scrutinized or exaggerated for comedic or dramatic effect.
George Lillo: George Lillo was an English playwright and a significant figure in the emergence of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy in the early 18th century. He is best known for his play 'The London Merchant,' which marked a shift toward representing middle-class characters and moral dilemmas on stage, emphasizing emotional engagement and the consequences of moral choices.
Hugh Kelly: Hugh Kelly was an influential Irish playwright and actor in the 18th century, known for his contributions to the genre of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy. His works, particularly 'A Word to the Wise' and 'The False Delicacy,' showcased the emerging themes of emotional depth, moral lessons, and relatable characters that defined these genres during this period. Kelly's writing reflected a shift in theatrical focus from farcical humor to more heartfelt narratives that addressed social issues and human relationships.
Justice: Justice refers to the concept of fairness and moral rightness, often associated with the legal system and societal norms. It embodies the idea that individuals should receive what they are due, whether it be punishment or reward, based on their actions and circumstances. This term connects deeply with themes of morality, ethics, and social order, and is especially relevant in the narratives of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, where characters often confront the consequences of their actions in pursuit of justice or the lack thereof.
Moral Dilemmas: Moral dilemmas are situations in which a person faces conflicting moral principles, leading to a choice that may violate one ethical guideline in favor of another. They often require individuals to weigh the consequences of their actions, highlighting the complexity of human ethics and decision-making. In the context of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, moral dilemmas serve as crucial plot devices, illustrating characters' struggles with their conscience and the societal expectations placed upon them.
Moral Instruction: Moral instruction refers to the practice of teaching ethical principles and values through various forms of storytelling, including theatre, literature, and other narrative mediums. This concept was particularly significant during the emergence of new dramatic forms in the 18th century, where works aimed to not only entertain but also to promote moral virtues and societal values, guiding audiences toward reflection on their own behavior and societal norms.
Natural Language: Natural language refers to the language that has developed organically through use by humans, as opposed to constructed languages or programming languages. It encompasses the spoken and written forms of communication that evolve over time and are used for everyday interactions. Natural language plays a significant role in various genres of literature, especially in sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, where it reflects authentic human emotions and social dynamics.
Psychological realism: Psychological realism is a dramatic technique that emphasizes the inner thoughts, emotions, and motivations of characters, providing a deeper understanding of their psychological states. This approach focuses on creating believable characters whose actions are driven by their psychological experiences, allowing the audience to connect with them on an emotional level. It reflects the complexity of human behavior and the nuances of personal relationships, often leading to rich character development and motivation.
Redemption: Redemption refers to the act of saving or being saved from sin, error, or evil, often involving a sense of renewal and transformation. In theatrical contexts, it signifies characters overcoming their flaws or past mistakes to achieve moral or spiritual salvation. This theme is prevalent in various forms of drama, emphasizing personal growth and the capacity for change, ultimately leading to a hopeful resolution.
Reformed Rake: A reformed rake is a character archetype typically found in literature and drama, representing a libertine or reckless individual who undergoes a transformation towards moral redemption. This character often embodies the qualities of charm and charisma, attracting others through their vivacious lifestyle, but ultimately faces consequences that lead them to reform. The emergence of this archetype is closely linked to shifts in societal values during the rise of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, where morality and emotional depth began to take precedence over mere escapism.
Restoration Period: The Restoration Period refers to the time in England from 1660 to 1688 when the monarchy was restored after the English Civil War and the Interregnum. This era marked significant changes in politics, culture, and theatre, transitioning from the strict Puritan rule back to royal authority and a flourishing of artistic expression, particularly in drama.
Richard Steele: Richard Steele was an influential Irish writer and playwright, best known for his contributions to the development of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy in the early 18th century. He co-founded the popular periodical The Tatler and played a crucial role in shaping the tone and style of sentimental comedy by emphasizing emotion, morality, and domestic life as central themes. His work laid the groundwork for later playwrights and marked a significant shift in theatrical storytelling.
Romantic plots: Romantic plots are narrative structures in storytelling that focus on the development of a romantic relationship between characters, often featuring obstacles they must overcome to be together. These plots typically emphasize emotional connections, passion, and personal growth, often culminating in a resolution where the lovers unite or find closure. In the context of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, romantic plots serve as a vehicle to explore themes of love, morality, and the societal expectations surrounding relationships.
Sensibility: Sensibility refers to an emotional responsiveness or sensitivity that emphasizes the capacity to feel, perceive, and empathize with the emotions of others. This concept became particularly significant in the context of dramatic works during the rise of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, as it highlights the importance of personal feelings and moral sentiments in storytelling, fostering a deeper connection between characters and audiences.
Sentimental Comedy: Sentimental comedy is a genre of theatre that emerged in the 18th century, characterized by its focus on emotional appeal and the exploration of moral themes. This style often presents characters who are virtuous and morally upright, facing various challenges that evoke sympathy from the audience, leading to a happy resolution. It differs from traditional comedy by prioritizing sentiment over humor and often incorporates elements of domestic tragedy to heighten the emotional stakes.
Sentimental Scenes: Sentimental scenes are moments in dramatic works designed to evoke strong emotions such as pity, tenderness, or nostalgia in the audience. These scenes often highlight themes of love, family, or sacrifice, creating a deep emotional connection between the characters and viewers. They play a crucial role in sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy by emphasizing moral values and the complexity of human relationships.
Social criticism: Social criticism refers to the practice of analyzing and evaluating societal norms, structures, and issues, often with the goal of highlighting injustices and prompting change. In the realm of theater, it serves as a powerful tool to engage audiences by reflecting on social issues, questioning established values, and sparking conversations about morality and ethics, especially in genres such as sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy.
Soliloquies: A soliloquy is a dramatic device where a character speaks their thoughts aloud while alone on stage, allowing the audience to gain insight into their inner feelings and motivations. This technique is often used to reveal a character's personal dilemmas, conflicts, and emotional states, thereby enhancing the depth of the narrative. Soliloquies play a crucial role in establishing themes and character development, particularly in genres that emphasize emotional truth and domestic concerns.
Stock Characters: Stock characters are stereotypical figures that represent specific traits or characteristics commonly found in various genres of literature and drama. These characters often embody familiar roles, such as the 'damsel in distress' or the 'comic relief,' allowing audiences to quickly recognize their functions in a story. Stock characters simplify storytelling by providing a foundation for emotional and comedic situations, making them prevalent in genres like sentimental comedy, domestic tragedy, melodrama, and Roman theatre.
Subplots: Subplots are secondary storylines that run parallel to the main plot, often enriching the narrative by adding depth and complexity to the characters and themes. They can serve to highlight contrasting situations or character arcs, providing additional insights and engaging the audience on multiple levels. Subplots often interconnect with the main plot, enhancing the overall structure and emotional impact of a work.
Tableaux: Tableaux are staged visual scenes, often using actors frozen in position, that convey a narrative or emotion without dialogue. This theatrical device serves as a powerful way to express ideas or themes, allowing the audience to engage visually with the moment. The use of tableaux can heighten emotional impact, serving as a visual metaphor or reflection of character dynamics, especially in the context of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy.
Temptation: Temptation refers to the desire to engage in short-term urges for enjoyment that threatens long-term goals. In the context of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, temptation often manifests as a moral struggle, where characters face choices that test their values and lead to consequences that affect their lives and relationships. This conflict creates tension in the narrative, driving character development and engaging the audience’s emotional response.
Temptress: A temptress is a character archetype often depicted as a seductive woman who uses her allure to manipulate or lead men into moral corruption or peril. In the context of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, the temptress serves as a catalyst for conflict and emotional turmoil, often challenging societal norms and expectations regarding gender roles and morality.
The Conscious Lovers: The Conscious Lovers is a term that refers to a genre of sentimental comedy that emerged in the 18th century, focusing on the moral development and emotional journeys of its characters, particularly in romantic relationships. This style emphasizes the importance of emotional honesty, virtue, and the genuine expressions of love, marking a shift from traditional comedic forms that relied heavily on wit and social satire. The genre celebrates characters who are aware of their feelings and strive for authenticity in their relationships, representing a significant change in theatrical narratives during this period.
The London Merchant: The London Merchant is a play written by George Lillo, first performed in 1731, that exemplifies the genre of domestic tragedy. It focuses on the moral dilemmas faced by ordinary people and reflects the growing interest in sentimentality during the 18th century, revealing the emotional struggles of the characters while highlighting themes of virtue, vice, and social responsibility.
Tragic flaw: A tragic flaw is a character trait or weakness in a protagonist that leads to their downfall. This concept is central to both sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, as it highlights the inner struggles of characters, often leading them to make poor decisions that culminate in their demise or suffering. The tragic flaw creates a complex emotional landscape where audiences can empathize with the characters, reflecting the human condition's vulnerability.
Virtuous hero/heroine: A virtuous hero or heroine is a character in drama who embodies moral integrity, selflessness, and admirable qualities, often facing trials that test their ethical values. These characters serve as paragons of virtue, evoking empathy and admiration from the audience as they navigate personal dilemmas and societal challenges. Their journeys frequently highlight the importance of moral fortitude, compassion, and the triumph of good over evil within the narrative.
Voice of Reason: The voice of reason refers to a character or perspective that provides rationality, moral clarity, and sound judgment within a narrative. This figure often acts as a counterbalance to chaos, emotional extremes, or irrational behavior, guiding other characters toward understanding and resolution. In the context of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, the voice of reason embodies values of empathy, compassion, and common sense, serving to highlight the moral lessons at play and reinforce societal norms.
Wise mentor: A wise mentor is a character archetype that embodies guidance, wisdom, and experience, often helping the protagonist navigate challenges and personal growth. This figure typically provides advice and support, drawing on their own life experiences to assist the younger character in making crucial decisions. In the context of sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy, the wise mentor often serves as a moral compass, helping to illuminate the themes of love, loss, and familial duty.