18th-century theatre

Definition

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.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 18th century was a time when theatre began to move away from the formalities of earlier periods, allowing for more realism and relatable characters.
2. Sentimental comedies became popular as they appealed to audiences' emotions and aimed to reinforce moral values by showcasing virtuous characters rewarded for their goodness.
3. Domestic tragedies explored the struggles of everyday life, often highlighting issues such as poverty, family conflict, and social injustice.
4. Playwrights like Richard Brinsley Sheridan and George Lillo were significant figures in shaping 18th-century theatre through their influential works.
5. The rise of new theatrical forms during this century set the stage for later developments in Romanticism and realism in the 19th century.

Review Questions

• How did 18th-century theatre reflect societal changes in Europe during this time?
  • 18th-century theatre reflected societal changes by focusing on themes that resonated with the emerging middle class. As society became increasingly concerned with individual emotions and moral values, playwrights began to create works that highlighted the lives and struggles of ordinary people. This shift towards sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy allowed audiences to connect with relatable characters facing everyday challenges, illustrating a move away from the aristocratic themes that dominated earlier theatrical forms.
• In what ways did sentimental comedy differ from traditional forms of comedy in 18th-century theatre?
  • Sentimental comedy differed from traditional forms by placing a strong emphasis on emotional engagement and moral instruction rather than purely entertaining humor. Unlike earlier comedies that often relied on farce or satire to critique societal norms, sentimental comedies sought to elicit sympathy for virtuous characters who overcame personal struggles. This shift highlighted the importance of emotional resonance and social responsibility in storytelling, reflecting changing values within society.
• Evaluate the impact of domestic tragedy on the evolution of theatre in subsequent centuries.
  • Domestic tragedy had a profound impact on the evolution of theatre by paving the way for more realistic portrayals of human experiences in subsequent centuries. By focusing on the lives of ordinary individuals facing relatable challenges, it challenged the notion that only noble or heroic figures were worthy subjects for serious drama. This democratization of character allowed later movements like realism and naturalism to flourish, as playwrights began to explore deeper psychological motivations and societal issues affecting everyday life.

Related terms

Sentimental Comedy: A genre of comedy that emphasizes emotion and moral lessons, often featuring middle-class characters and situations that evoke sympathy from the audience.

Domestic Tragedy: A type of tragedy that deals with the lives of ordinary people rather than nobility, focusing on personal and familial struggles that evoke pity and fear.

Theatre of the Enlightenment: Theatrical works that emerged during the Enlightenment period, promoting reason, individualism, and a questioning of traditional authority through innovative storytelling and themes.