Autos sacramentales

Definition

Autos sacramentales are one-act plays that focus on themes related to the Catholic faith, particularly the Eucharist, and were popular during the Spanish Golden Age. These plays combined elements of allegory and morality, showcasing religious subjects in a theatrical format that was accessible to a wide audience. They often used vivid imagery and dialogue to explore complex theological ideas and were typically performed during religious festivals or events.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Autos sacramentales were closely tied to the Catholic Church, aiming to educate audiences about religious doctrines while also providing moral lessons.
2. These plays typically featured allegorical characters representing virtues and vices, allowing audiences to reflect on their own lives and beliefs.
3. They were often performed during the Feast of Corpus Christi, a significant celebration in the Catholic calendar dedicated to the Eucharist.
4. Calderón de la Barca wrote many famous autos sacramentales, such as 'La vida es sueño,' which explored existential themes through a religious lens.
5. The structure of autos sacramentales influenced later theatrical works by establishing a tradition of integrating religious themes into popular entertainment.

Review Questions

• How did autos sacramentales serve both educational and entertainment purposes during the Spanish Golden Age?
  • Autos sacramentales functioned as both educational tools and forms of entertainment by dramatizing religious themes, particularly regarding the Eucharist. They were designed to inform audiences about key Catholic doctrines while simultaneously engaging them through compelling narratives and characters. The use of allegory allowed for deep moral reflections, making these plays appealing and instructive at public festivals where they could reach a diverse audience.
• Discuss the contributions of Calderón de la Barca to the genre of autos sacramentales and how they reflect the cultural values of his time.
  • Calderón de la Barca significantly contributed to the genre of autos sacramentales with his complex narratives and philosophical depth, particularly through works like 'La vida es sueño.' His plays reflect the cultural values of 17th-century Spain by addressing themes such as fate, free will, and spirituality. By intertwining these themes with religious elements, Calderón's autos sacramentales not only provided entertainment but also prompted audiences to contemplate their beliefs within a rapidly changing society.
• Evaluate how autos sacramentales influenced modern theatre practices in terms of thematic exploration and audience engagement.
  • Autos sacramentales have had a lasting impact on modern theatre practices by pioneering the integration of religious themes within accessible narratives that engage audiences. The allegorical nature of these plays set a precedent for exploring complex human experiences through symbolic characters. Additionally, their emphasis on morality and societal reflection can be seen in contemporary works that aim to provoke thought while entertaining. This legacy continues to inspire playwrights seeking to balance profound thematic content with audience appeal in today's diverse theatrical landscape.

Related terms

Lope de Vega: A prominent playwright of the Spanish Golden Age known for his prolific output and contributions to the development of Spanish drama, often integrating themes of love, honor, and faith.

Calderón de la Barca: A notable playwright and poet of the Spanish Golden Age who is best known for his autos sacramentales and deeper philosophical explorations of human existence and spirituality.

Comedia Nueva: A new form of Spanish theater that emerged during the Golden Age, characterized by its blending of comic and tragic elements, which influenced the structure of later theatrical works.