Education

Definition

Education refers to the process of acquiring knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes through various methods such as teaching, training, or self-directed learning. In the context of 18th-century theatre, education became a crucial element as it helped shape the moral and social values conveyed through sentimental comedy and bourgeois drama, reflecting the changing societal norms of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the 18th century, education was increasingly accessible to the middle class, which influenced the themes and characters in theatre.
2. Sentimental comedy often aimed to teach audiences moral lessons while entertaining them, showcasing the educational role of theatre.
3. Bourgeois drama depicted everyday life and struggles, reflecting the education and aspirations of the growing middle class.
4. Theatres became venues for social commentary, educating audiences about contemporary social issues through relatable characters.
5. Playwrights utilized theatre as a means to promote Enlightenment ideas, encouraging critical thinking and moral reasoning among viewers.

Review Questions

• How did the education of the middle class influence the themes and character development in sentimental comedies?
  • The education of the middle class greatly influenced sentimental comedies by introducing relatable characters who faced moral dilemmas reflective of contemporary social issues. As the middle class became more educated, playwrights crafted narratives that resonated with their experiences and values. This connection not only entertained audiences but also provided them with moral lessons, reinforcing societal norms and encouraging ethical behavior.
• In what ways did bourgeois drama serve as a form of education for its audiences regarding social issues?
  • Bourgeois drama served as an educational tool by portraying the lives and challenges of middle-class characters facing social issues such as class struggles, family dynamics, and personal aspirations. Through relatable narratives, these plays educated audiences about their own realities and the complexities of society. By highlighting moral choices and consequences, bourgeois drama encouraged reflection and dialogue about societal norms and values among viewers.
• Evaluate the role of theatre as an educational medium during the 18th century in shaping public attitudes towards morality and social responsibility.
  • Theatre during the 18th century played a significant role in educating audiences about morality and social responsibility through its focus on emotional appeal and relatable narratives. By addressing contemporary issues in sentimental comedies and bourgeois dramas, theatre not only entertained but also fostered critical thinking about ethical behavior and societal expectations. This educational aspect encouraged audiences to engage with moral lessons presented on stage, ultimately shaping public attitudes towards their roles as responsible citizens within a rapidly changing society.

Related terms

Sentimental Comedy: A genre of comedy that emphasizes emotional appeal and moral lessons, often focusing on the struggles of middle-class characters.

Bourgeois Drama: A type of drama that presents the lives and concerns of the middle class, often highlighting social issues and moral dilemmas.

Moral Instruction: The teaching of principles or lessons about right and wrong behavior, which was a central theme in many plays of this era.