9.3 The emergence of American playwrights and works
5 min read•august 13, 2024
The 19th century saw American playwrights emerge and define a national theatrical identity. Early writers like and adapted European styles to American settings, introducing iconic characters like the "" to contrast American and European values.
Later playwrights tackled social issues and American themes. 's melodramas addressed slavery, while realists like explored marriage and gender roles. romanticized the nation's past, shaping cultural myths and celebrating American values on stage.
American Playwrights of the 19th Century
Early American Playwrights
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- William Dunlap is considered the first professional American playwright, known for his comedy (1789) which adapted European styles to American settings and characters
- was an early American playwright who wrote the first American Indian play, (1808), based on the story of Pocahontas
- Royall Tyler wrote (1787), often considered the first American comedy, which introduced the iconic "Yankee" character type and contrasted American and European values
- The "Yankee" character was a rustic New England type known for his folksy wisdom and served as an emblem of the young nation
Later 19th Century Playwrights
- Dion Boucicault, though Irish, spent much of his career in America and wrote popular melodramas like (1859) that dealt with American social issues such as slavery
- Boucicault's plays often featured sensation scenes, like a burning steamboat in The Octoroon, to attract audiences
- was a prolific playwright of the late 19th century considered the "Dean of American Drama" for works like (1889) that established American dramatic conventions
- Howard's plays spanned genres from social comedy (The Henrietta, 1887) to historical drama and often depicted American character types and themes
- Toward the end of the century, playwrights like James A. Herne and emerged as early realists who tackled social issues on the stage
- Herne's (1890) depicted an unhappy marriage and a double standard for men and women with unprecedented frankness
- Fitch wrote "problem plays" about modern life such as (1909) which dealt with political corruption
Themes and Innovations in American Plays
Adapting European Forms to American Subjects
- Early American plays often adapted European dramatic forms like the to American settings, Yankee characters and themes to define a unique style
- The comedy of manners satirized society's foibles and was adapted to deflate American pretensions and celebrate Yankee practicality
- Plays increasingly depicted American life, people and vernacular speech, as in 's adaptation of (1852) which brought Stowe's novel to a mass audience
- Aiken's play used blackface characters and realistic plantation settings to make the anti-slavery message more popular and accessible
Melodrama and Moral Allegory
- was a dominant form, as seen in Boucicault's The Octoroon (1859) which addressed the issue of slavery and race with sensation scenes and clear moral messages
- In The Octoroon, the hero is an enslaved mixed-race woman who sacrifices herself to save her white lover, presenting an allegory for the nation's racial tensions
- Melodramas presented Manichean conflicts between good and evil, with virtuous heroes overcoming dastardly villains to reinforce American values of liberty and democracy
- The popular melodrama (1844) depicted the moral dangers of alcoholism and was an early example of temperance drama
Romanticizing American History
- Historical dramas like Bronson Howard's Shenandoah (1889) romanticized the recent American past of the and reconstruction on a broad canvas
- Shenandoah depicts a Virginia family divided by the Civil War and ends with a message of sectional reconciliation and national healing
- Staging the American Revolution, Indian wars, and westward expansion became a way to create shared cultural myths and celebrate the nation-building process
- 's (1829) depicted the 17th century conflict between Native Americans and Puritan settlers as a tragic but inevitable clash of civilizations
Shaping a National Theatrical Identity
Breaking from British Influence
- In the post-Revolutionary era, American playwrights sought to break from British influence and define American character types, settings and themes on stage
- Royall Tyler's The Contrast (1787) juxtaposed an honest Yankee hero with a foppish Anglophile character to assert American values over British sophistication
- American plays began to depict the young republic's people, issues and vernacular speech in a more realistic way than British dramas
- The "Yankee" character type, as in The Forest Rose (1825), was a symbol of American ingenuity and self-reliance contrasted with European decadence
Staging American Life and Issues
- Depicting American life and people became a priority, whether rural "Yankee" characters, plantation settings, or issues like slavery in works by Tyler, Aiken, Boucicault and others
- George Aiken's adaptation of Uncle Tom's Cabin (1852) reached a far wider audience than the novel and shaped popular perceptions of slavery and race
- Melodrama was used to present moral allegories for , with virtuous heroes, evil villains and sensational plots that reinforced national values
- The Octoroon (1859) made the evils of slavery thrilling and titillating for audiences while still condemning the institution through its tragic mixed-race heroine
- By the late 19th century, American "" playwrights were taking on contemporary social issues and depicting them with greater realism to establish an American dramatic tradition distinct from European models
- James A. Herne's Margaret Fleming (1890) explored the double standard between men and women and the realities of unhappy marriage with unprecedented frankness on the American stage
Mythologizing the American Past
- Staging the recent American past in historical dramas became a way to create shared cultural myths and romanticize the nation-building process
- John Burk's Bunker Hill (1797) was an early example of a play that mythologized the Revolutionary War as a heroic struggle for freedom
- Civil War dramas like Bronson Howard's Shenandoah (1889) recast the nation's bloodiest conflict as a necessary trial leading to reunion and reconciliation
- Shenandoah spans the entire Civil War and ends with a Northern soldier marrying into a Southern family to symbolize the restored Union
- Frontier dramas like Metamora (1829) depicted the conquest of Native Americans as a tragic but inevitable part of America's destined expansion
- Metamora valorizes the defeated Wampanoag leader as a noble savage while still justifying the European settlers' actions as the march of civilization
Key Terms to Review (28)
American democracy: American democracy is a system of government in which power is vested in the people, who exercise that power directly or through elected representatives. This form of governance emphasizes principles such as individual rights, equality before the law, and the importance of civic participation, making it a foundational element of American identity and culture.
American Realism: American Realism is a theatrical movement that emerged in the late 19th century, focusing on depicting everyday life and the struggles of ordinary people in a truthful and unidealized manner. This movement was characterized by its rejection of romanticized portrayals and an emphasis on authentic dialogue, relatable characters, and real-life situations, reflecting the societal changes occurring in the United States during that time.
Bronson Howard: Bronson Howard was an influential American playwright in the late 19th century, often regarded as one of the first professional American dramatists. He is known for his works that contributed to the emergence of American theatre, emphasizing themes relevant to contemporary society and the American experience. His notable plays helped pave the way for future playwrights and shaped the evolution of theatrical storytelling in the United States.
Civil War: A civil war is a conflict between factions within the same country, often fought for control over the government, territorial independence, or ideological dominance. These wars can lead to significant social, political, and cultural changes in a society, influencing the development of national identity and the arts, including theatre.
Clyde Fitch: Clyde Fitch was an influential American playwright and one of the first significant figures in the development of modern American theater in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His works often explored themes of social issues, morality, and the complexities of human relationships, and he is known for popularizing the use of realism in American drama, setting the stage for future playwrights to follow.
Comedy of manners: Comedy of manners is a genre of comedy that satirizes the behaviors, customs, and social mores of a particular class, often the upper class, highlighting their pretensions and moral shortcomings. This genre emerged during a time when professional theatre was becoming more prominent, and it often relied on witty dialogue, intricate plots, and the use of stock characters to expose the absurdities of high society.
Dion Boucicault: Dion Boucicault was a prominent Irish playwright and actor known for his significant contributions to the development of melodrama in the 19th century. His works were characterized by their emotional appeal, sensationalism, and often contained social commentary that resonated with audiences. Boucicault's influence is notable in both American and British theatre, marking a pivotal point in the emergence of distinct American theatrical voices.
George Aiken: George Aiken was an influential American playwright and adapter known for his works during the mid-20th century. He gained recognition for his adaptations of classic novels into stage plays, with 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' being one of his most notable works. His contributions helped shape the American theatrical landscape, showcasing a blend of popular storytelling and theatrical artistry.
Historical dramas: Historical dramas are theatrical works that depict events, figures, or cultures from the past, often intertwining factual narratives with creative storytelling. These plays aim to provide insight into significant historical moments while exploring themes of identity, morality, and societal change. They serve not only as entertainment but also as a means to reflect on history's impact on the present and future.
James A. Herne: James A. Herne was a prominent American playwright and actor in the late 19th century, known for his contributions to the emergence of American theatre. He is recognized for creating works that focused on realistic themes and characters, helping to establish a distinctly American voice in playwriting at a time when European influences dominated the stage. Herne's works often explored social issues and the lives of ordinary people, paving the way for future generations of American playwrights.
James Nelson Barker: James Nelson Barker was an influential American playwright and actor of the early 19th century, known for his contribution to the development of American theatre. He is often recognized for his pioneering works that highlighted American themes and characters, making significant strides in establishing a distinct American theatrical identity. His works often included elements of melodrama and social commentary, reflecting the cultural landscape of early America.
John Augustus Stone: John Augustus Stone was an American playwright and one of the earliest figures in the development of American theater during the 19th century. He is best known for his play 'Metamora,' which showcased a Native American character and became one of the first successful American dramas that appealed to audiences in the United States. Stone's work contributed to the emergence of American playwrights by addressing themes of national identity and cultural representation.
Margaret Fleming: Margaret Fleming was a prominent American playwright and director known for her contributions to early 20th-century American theatre. Her works often explored themes of social justice and the complexities of human relationships, marking her as a significant figure in the emergence of American playwrights during this period. Fleming's unique voice and perspective helped pave the way for future generations of American dramatists, illustrating the diverse narratives that began to shape the American theatrical landscape.
Melodrama: Melodrama is a dramatic genre characterized by exaggerated emotions, sensational events, and clear moral distinctions between characters, often featuring a struggle between good and evil. This style of storytelling became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, greatly influencing theatrical forms and emotional engagement with audiences.
Metamora; or, The Last of the Wampanoags: Metamora; or, The Last of the Wampanoags is a play written by John Augustus Stone in 1829, focusing on the life and struggles of a Wampanoag chief named Metamora during the colonial period in America. This work is significant as it highlights the emerging voice of American playwrights, reflecting both Native American perspectives and the broader themes of identity, colonialism, and resistance. The play showcases early attempts to incorporate indigenous narratives into American theatre, setting a precedent for future works that address complex cultural histories.
Moral allegory: Moral allegory is a narrative technique in which characters and events symbolize moral lessons or ethical truths. This form of storytelling often uses personification and symbolism to convey deeper meanings about human nature, morality, and societal values. In the context of emerging American playwrights, moral allegories served to critique societal norms and provoke thought about moral dilemmas faced by individuals and communities.
New drama: New drama refers to a movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries characterized by a shift away from traditional theatrical conventions towards more realistic and socially relevant themes. This term encapsulates the emergence of playwrights who sought to address contemporary issues, experiment with form, and develop complex characters, breaking away from melodrama and romanticism. New drama played a vital role in shaping American theatre by introducing new voices and perspectives.
Royall Tyler: Royall Tyler was an influential American playwright and theatre manager known for his significant contributions to early American theatre, particularly in the late 18th century. He is best recognized for his play 'The Contrast,' which was one of the first successful comedies written by an American, showcasing the potential for original American narratives in a time when European influence dominated theatrical productions. Tyler's work laid the groundwork for future American playwrights and reflected the evolving cultural landscape of the United States.
Shenandoah: Shenandoah is a significant American folk song that emerged during the 19th century, often associated with the era of westward expansion and the lives of American sailors. The song reflects themes of longing and nostalgia, particularly related to love and loss, often sung by those traveling through or working in the Shenandoah Valley. It has become an emblematic piece of American cultural heritage, illustrating the emotional landscape of its time and contributing to the emergence of American theatrical works that drew from folk traditions.
The city: In the context of theatre, 'the city' refers to urban centers that serve as cultural hubs, shaping artistic expression and providing a space for the performance of drama. These cities often reflect the social, political, and economic dynamics of their time, becoming essential backdrops for the emergence of playwrights and theatrical works that resonate with their unique characteristics.
The contrast: The contrast refers to the juxtaposition of differing elements within a theatrical work, often highlighting the unique qualities of characters, themes, or styles. This technique is essential in shaping the narrative and emotional landscape of a play, as it allows playwrights to explore complex relationships and societal issues through opposing forces or perspectives.
The Drunkard: The Drunkard is a significant early American melodrama written by Edward M. Alfriend in 1844, known for its exploration of themes surrounding alcoholism and moral redemption. This play is notable for its engaging storytelling and its ability to reflect societal attitudes toward vice and virtue during its time. As one of the earliest examples of American theatrical works, it helped lay the groundwork for future American playwrights and highlighted the potential of theatre as a means of social commentary.
The father; or, american shandyism: The father; or, american shandyism is a significant theatrical work that emerged in the late 19th century, illustrating the early development of American comedic drama. This play reflects a blend of traditional European theatrical styles and the burgeoning American cultural identity, showcasing a unique blend of humor and social commentary. It marks an important moment in the emergence of American playwrights who began to establish their voices in the national theatre scene.
The Indian Princess: The Indian Princess is a significant early American play written by James Nelson Barker in 1808, which reflects the cultural attitudes and theatrical styles of the time. The play explores themes of love, identity, and the portrayal of Native American characters through a romantic lens, serving as a bridge between colonial theatrical traditions and the emergence of a distinct American drama. Its production and reception mark an important moment in the evolution of American theater.
The octoroon: The octoroon refers to a person of mixed race, specifically someone who has one-eighth African ancestry. This term became significant in American theatre during the 19th century, especially within the context of melodrama, which often explored themes of racial identity and social justice. The portrayal of octoroons reflected societal attitudes towards race and class, becoming a focal point in the works of emerging American playwrights as they began to tackle complex issues related to race relations and identity in their stories.
Uncle Tom's Cabin: Uncle Tom's Cabin is a novel by Harriet Beecher Stowe, published in 1852, which played a crucial role in shaping American views on slavery. It vividly portrays the harsh realities of enslaved life, ultimately energizing anti-slavery sentiments in the North and influencing public opinion leading up to the Civil War. The work marked a significant moment in American literature, demonstrating how literature could affect social change and giving rise to a wave of American playwrights who sought to address social issues through their works.
William Dunlap: William Dunlap was an American playwright, actor, and theatre manager who played a pivotal role in the early development of American theatre in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. As one of the first American-born playwrights, he contributed significantly to the establishment of a distinct American theatrical identity, producing notable works and helping to foster the growth of playhouses across the United States.
Yankee: The term 'yankee' refers to a colloquial expression used to describe a person from the United States, particularly those from the northern states. It has evolved over time to symbolize a sense of American identity and pride, especially during the period leading up to and during the Civil War, influencing American theatre through character portrayals and narratives in plays written by American playwrights.