Moral Instruction

Definition

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.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Moral instruction became a key feature in the rise of sentimental comedy, where playwrights sought to inspire positive emotions and ethical behavior among audiences.
2. Domestic tragedies often included moral instruction by illustrating the consequences of vice and the importance of familial bonds, emphasizing the need for virtue in daily life.
3. During the 18th century, moral instruction through drama was intended to shape public opinion and promote social change by presenting relatable characters facing moral dilemmas.
4. The blending of humor with moral lessons in sentimental comedies helped make ethical teachings more accessible and engaging for audiences.
5. Critics often viewed the effectiveness of moral instruction in drama as a reflection of its ability to resonate with real-life issues faced by society at that time.

Review Questions

• How did moral instruction manifest in sentimental comedies during the 18th century?
  • In sentimental comedies, moral instruction was woven into the narrative structure by presenting characters who embodied virtue and faced challenges that tested their morals. These plays aimed to evoke sympathy and emotional responses from the audience, ultimately leading them to reflect on their own values and behavior. The goal was not just to entertain but also to instill a sense of morality that resonated with the viewers' everyday lives.
• Discuss the relationship between domestic tragedy and moral instruction in 18th-century theatre.
  • Domestic tragedies frequently showcased personal and familial conflicts that highlighted ethical dilemmas faced by ordinary people. Through these narratives, playwrights provided moral instruction by illustrating how characters' decisions led to significant consequences, fostering empathy among audiences. The emotional weight of these stories encouraged viewers to consider their own actions within family dynamics and societal expectations, thereby reinforcing moral values.
• Evaluate the impact of satire as a form of moral instruction during the 18th century in relation to societal issues.
  • Satire played a crucial role in delivering moral instruction by using humor and irony to critique social norms and behaviors. This approach allowed writers to confront controversial topics while engaging their audiences in a way that provoked thought and reflection. By exposing societal vices through exaggerated portrayals or witty dialogue, satirical works not only entertained but also pushed audiences toward recognizing flaws in their own conduct and encouraging reform within society.

Related terms

Sentimental Comedy:

A genre of comedy that emphasizes emotional response and moral lessons, often portraying virtuous characters overcoming obstacles to achieve happiness.

Domestic Tragedy:

A genre that focuses on the lives of ordinary people, often depicting the emotional and moral struggles within families, aiming to evoke empathy and reflection from the audience.

Satire:

A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock societal vices and shortcomings, often aiming for moral improvement through reflection.