Glossary

8.1 Humanism and the Revival of Classical Drama

4 min read•july 29, 2024

The brought a revival of classical drama, fueled by . This movement celebrated human potential and ancient texts, inspiring artists to explore individual experiences. Scholars rediscovered Greek and Roman plays, providing new models for Renaissance playwrights.

Humanism's impact on theatre was huge. It shifted dramatic themes towards complex characters and their motivations. New genres emerged, blending classical inspiration with Renaissance sensibilities. This revival set the stage for a golden age of drama across Europe.

Humanism's Influence on Renaissance Drama

Intellectual Movement and the Arts

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  • Humanism was an intellectual movement that emphasized the study of classical texts, human potential, and individual expression
  • Greatly influenced the arts during the Renaissance period
  • Led to a renewed interest in the works of ancient Greek and Roman authors (, , )
  • Inspired artists to create works that celebrated the human experience and individual achievement

Rediscovery and Translation of Classical Texts

  • Humanist scholars rediscovered, translated, and disseminated ancient Greek and Roman texts, including plays
  • The rediscovery of Plautus' and Terence's comedies in the 14th and 15th centuries provided models for Renaissance playwrights to emulate and adapt
  • The translation of Aristotle's "Poetics" by Giorgio Valla in 1498 provided a theoretical framework for understanding and creating drama based on classical principles
  • The recovery of Seneca's tragedies in the late 15th century influenced the development of Renaissance tragic drama, particularly in terms of themes and style

Impact on Dramatic Themes and Structure

  • The humanist focus on the individual and human experience led to a shift in dramatic themes, with plays exploring complex characters and their motivations
  • Plays began to delve into the psychological depths of characters and their relationships
  • Humanist ideas of and influenced the structure and style of Renaissance plays, as writers aimed to create more realistic and relatable works
  • The revival of classical drama during the Renaissance led to the development of new dramatic genres, such as the , which drew inspiration from ancient Roman

Key Figures of the Humanist Movement

Early Humanist Scholars

  • Francesco Petrarca (Petrarch) was an early humanist scholar who rediscovered and promoted the works of ancient Roman authors, inspiring a renewed interest in classical literature and ideas
  • Giovanni , a prominent humanist writer, composed works that showcased humanist themes and influenced the development of Renaissance literature and drama
  • Coluccio , a Florentine humanist and political figure, played a crucial role in promoting the study of classical texts and supporting the arts, including theatre

Playwrights and Poets

  • Niccolò , best known for his political treatise "The Prince," was also a prolific playwright who incorporated humanist ideas into his works, such as "La Mandragola"
  • Ludovico , an Italian poet and playwright, wrote the influential play "La Cassaria," which exemplified the Renaissance revival of classical drama and humanist themes
  • Ariosto's "Orlando Furioso," an epic poem, also showcased humanist ideals and became a source of inspiration for many Renaissance artists
  • Pietro , a satirist and playwright, wrote provocative works that challenged societal norms and reflected humanist ideas of individualism and free expression

Rediscovery of Classical Plays

Recovery and Translation of Ancient Texts

  • The rediscovery of Plautus' and Terence's comedies in the 14th and 15th centuries provided models for Renaissance playwrights to emulate and adapt
  • The translation of Aristotle's "Poetics" by Giorgio Valla in 1498 provided a theoretical framework for understanding and creating drama based on classical principles
  • The recovery of Seneca's tragedies in the late 15th century influenced the development of Renaissance tragic drama, particularly in terms of themes and style

Dissemination and Accessibility

  • The printing press, invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century, facilitated the dissemination of classical texts and translations, making them more accessible to scholars and artists
  • The increased availability of classical works allowed for a wider audience to engage with and be influenced by the ideas and themes of ancient drama
  • The study of ancient Greek and Roman plays in their original languages became an essential part of humanist education, leading to a deeper understanding and appreciation of classical drama

Patronage and Renaissance Theatre

Financial Support and Protection

  • Wealthy patrons, such as the Medici family in Florence, provided financial support and protection for playwrights, actors, and theatre companies, enabling them to create and perform new works
  • Patronage allowed for the construction of dedicated theatre spaces, such as the in Vicenza, which was designed to emulate the architecture of ancient Roman theatres
  • The Teatro Olimpico, commissioned by the Olympic Academy and designed by Andrea Palladio, exemplifies the influence of classical architecture on Renaissance theatre design

Influence on Subject Matter and Style

  • The tastes and preferences of patrons influenced the subject matter and style of Renaissance plays, with many works commissioned to celebrate specific events or to promote political agendas
  • Patronage also facilitated the exchange of ideas and collaboration among artists, as playwrights, actors, and musicians often worked together under the support of a common patron
  • The Medici family's patronage of the arts, including theatre, helped establish Florence as a cultural center during the Renaissance

Limitations and Consequences

  • The reliance on patronage, however, also meant that theatre and dramatic literature were often shaped by the interests of the elite, rather than reflecting the experiences and concerns of the broader population
  • The need to appeal to wealthy patrons sometimes led to the creation of works that prioritized spectacle and entertainment over deeper themes or social commentary
  • The concentration of patronage among a few influential families or individuals could limit the diversity of artistic expression and perspectives in Renaissance theatre

Key Terms to Review (19)

Aretino: Aretino refers to Pietro Aretino, an influential Italian poet and playwright of the Renaissance period, known for his role in the revival of classical drama and humanist thought. His works bridged the gap between classical influences and contemporary themes, often incorporating satire and commentary on society, which reflected the ideals of humanism that were central to the cultural revival during this era.
Ariosto: Ludovico Ariosto was an Italian poet and playwright of the Renaissance, best known for his epic poem 'Orlando Furioso.' His work is significant for its blending of classical themes with contemporary issues, reflecting the humanist ideals of the period and influencing the revival of classical drama by incorporating elements of comedy, adventure, and romance.
Aristotle's Poetics: Aristotle's Poetics is a foundational text in literary theory, primarily discussing the principles of drama, especially tragedy. Written in the 4th century BCE, it outlines essential elements such as plot, character, and catharsis, which influenced the development of humanist thought and the revival of classical drama during the Renaissance. The work emphasizes the importance of mimesis, or imitation, as a means for drama to reflect reality and evoke emotional responses from the audience.
Boccaccio: Giovanni Boccaccio was an Italian writer, poet, and important humanist of the 14th century, best known for his work 'The Decameron', which consists of a collection of tales that explore themes of love, fate, and social commentary. His writings played a significant role in the revival of classical literature and the emergence of humanist thought, influencing both literature and the theatre during the Renaissance.
Comedy: Comedy is a genre of theatrical performance that aims to entertain and amuse the audience, often through humor, exaggerated characters, and absurd situations. It serves not only as entertainment but also as a reflection of social norms and critiques of society, using wit and irony to explore human behavior.
Decorum: Decorum refers to the appropriate behavior, speech, and dress expected in a particular situation, especially in the context of art and literature. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sense of propriety and adherence to societal norms, ensuring that characters and their actions align with their status, setting, and genre. This concept became significant during the Renaissance as artists and playwrights revived classical ideals, striving for a balance between realism and artistic expression.
Fall of Constantinople: The Fall of Constantinople refers to the capture of the city by the Ottoman Empire on May 29, 1453, marking the end of the Byzantine Empire. This pivotal event not only altered the balance of power in Eastern Europe but also had profound implications for the revival of classical thought and drama, as it led to the migration of Greek scholars to the West, fueling humanism and the rediscovery of ancient texts.
Humanism: Humanism is an intellectual movement that emphasizes the value and agency of human beings, focusing on human potential and achievements rather than divine or supernatural matters. This outlook paved the way for a renewed interest in classical texts and the arts, influencing various forms of drama and theatre throughout history.
Italian commedia erudita: Italian commedia erudita refers to a sophisticated form of theatrical performance that emerged during the Renaissance, characterized by its reliance on classical themes and influences from ancient Roman and Greek drama. This genre was rooted in humanism, which emphasized the study of classical texts and the revival of ancient theatrical practices, merging them with contemporary ideas to create a new theatrical expression that appealed to educated audiences.
Machiavelli: Niccolò Machiavelli was a Renaissance political philosopher best known for his work 'The Prince,' which offers pragmatic advice on political leadership and statecraft. His ideas emphasize the importance of power, the use of deceit, and the harsh realities of governance, reflecting a break from traditional moral approaches to politics that were prevalent in earlier thought.
Plautus: Plautus was a Roman playwright who lived from approximately 254 to 184 BCE and is one of the earliest and most significant figures in Roman comedy. His works are characterized by their witty dialogue, clever plots, and vibrant characters, which reflect both Greek influences and unique Roman themes.
Renaissance: The Renaissance was a cultural movement that began in Italy during the 14th century and spread across Europe, characterized by a renewed interest in classical antiquity, art, literature, and humanism. This period marked a shift towards individualism and secularism, influencing various aspects of society, including the emergence of professional theatre, the revival of classical drama, and innovative theatrical design.
Salutati: Coluccio Salutati was a prominent Italian humanist and scholar during the Renaissance, known for his work in reviving classical literature and thought. His contributions significantly influenced the development of humanism and the reestablishment of classical drama as a vital part of the cultural landscape in Italy and beyond. By promoting the study of ancient texts, he helped lay the groundwork for the flourishing of Renaissance arts and letters.
Seneca: Seneca was a Roman philosopher, statesman, and dramatist, known for his contributions to the development of Roman tragedy. His works significantly influenced later European drama, particularly during the Renaissance, as his exploration of themes like revenge, morality, and the human condition resonated with playwrights in various historical periods.
Teatro olimpico: The teatro olimpico, located in Vicenza, Italy, is one of the oldest surviving indoor theaters from the Renaissance period, designed by architect Andrea Palladio. It was constructed between 1580 and 1585 and is celebrated for its remarkable design that reflects the revival of classical architecture and the integration of ancient Roman theatrical elements. The theater's elaborate stage design and use of perspective create an immersive experience for audiences, showcasing the Renaissance fascination with humanism and classical drama.
Terence: Terence was a Roman playwright active during the 2nd century BCE, known for his sophisticated comedies that often explored themes of love, family, and social relationships. His works are characterized by their witty dialogue and complex characters, and they represent a significant evolution in Roman comedy, influenced heavily by Greek New Comedy.
The Reformation: The Reformation was a religious movement in the 16th century that aimed to reform the practices and beliefs of the Catholic Church, leading to the establishment of Protestant churches. This movement was driven by figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin, who challenged the authority of the Church and promoted ideas like justification by faith. The Reformation significantly impacted the role of religion in society and inspired new forms of art and theatre that broke away from strict ecclesiastical control.
Tragedy: Tragedy is a dramatic genre that presents serious themes and often involves the downfall of a protagonist due to a combination of personal flaws and fate. It explores the complexities of human nature and moral dilemmas, connecting deeply with audiences by evoking feelings of pity and fear.
Verisimilitude: Verisimilitude refers to the appearance of being true or real in art and literature, particularly in theatre. It encompasses the representation of realistic characters, settings, and events that evoke a sense of authenticity for the audience. This concept was crucial during the revival of classical drama, where humanists emphasized realism in storytelling, and it continued to evolve with innovations in theatre design that enhanced the believable portrayal of scenes.
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