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European Drama: A Rich and Evolving Tradition

European drama traces its roots to ancient Greece, evolving through the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and into modernity. It encompasses genres like tragedy and comedy, with contributions from playwrights such as Aeschylus, Shakespeare, Ibsen, and Beckett. These works reflect societal changes and continue to influence the global cultural discourse.

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1

Origin of European drama

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Began in ancient Greece, 5th century BCE.

2

Fundamental genres of Greek drama

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Tragedy and comedy.

3

Impact of Aristotle's 'Poetics'

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Laid foundation for dramatic theory, influenced Roman playwrights.

4

Secular topics in drama started to appear by the ______ century, exemplified by the play '______', which used allegory to impart moral teachings.

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12th Everyman

5

Characteristics of Commedia dell'arte

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Improvised performances, stock characters, masks, physical comedy, and satirical themes.

6

Dramatic arts surge in Spain, France, England

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Golden age of theatre, national styles developed, Shakespeare in England, Lope de Vega in Spain, Molière in France.

7

Opposition to theatre in Renaissance Europe

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Puritanical censorship, bans on performances, moral and religious objections to secular entertainment.

8

During the ______ century, Romanticism, which highlighted ______ and ______, became prominent.

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19th emotion individualism

9

Playwrights like ______ Ibsen and ______ Chekhov were pivotal in the move towards ______, depicting ordinary life and psychological depth.

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Henrik Anton Realism

10

Impact of WWI on 20th-century drama

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WWI influenced a somber mood in literature, leading to more serious, reflective theatrical works.

11

Bertolt Brecht's theatrical innovation

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Brecht developed Epic Theatre to provoke critical societal reflection, contrasting with traditional entertainment.

12

______ and ______ were key figures in avant-garde movements that questioned human existence through drama.

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Antonin Artaud Samuel Beckett

13

Contemporary playwrights' approach in European drama

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Exploring diverse voices, experimental forms, integrating multimedia for enriched theater.

14

Significance of European drama's evolution in global culture

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Demonstrates adaptability, maintains ongoing relevance in global cultural discourse.

15

In ______ dramas, humor is used to critique society, whereas ______ often centers on a tragic hero's downfall, provoking a ______ reaction from viewers.

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comedies tragedies cathartic

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The Genesis and Development of European Drama

European drama, an essential component of Western culture, originated in ancient Greece around the 5th century BCE. The Greeks not only established the fundamental genres of tragedy and comedy but also created enduring works that form the bedrock of the dramatic tradition. Playwrights such as Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides crafted narratives that continue to be performed and studied. Aristotle's "Poetics" laid the foundation for dramatic theory, influencing subsequent Roman playwrights like Seneca. Despite varying degrees of prominence throughout history, European drama has maintained its significance, with many plays becoming staples of the Western literary canon.
Renaissance theater stage with actors in period costumes, ornate proscenium arch, pastoral backdrop, and audience on balcony, in natural lighting.

The Transformation of European Drama in the Middle Ages

The fall of the Roman Empire led to significant changes in European drama during the Middle Ages. Initially, the Christian Church opposed theatrical performances, but over time, it embraced drama to convey biblical narratives, culminating in liturgical and mystery plays. By the 12th century, secular themes began to emerge in plays like "Everyman," which utilized allegory to teach moral lessons and reflect on the human experience. These developments laid the groundwork for the rich tapestry of medieval European drama.

The Renaissance: A New Dawn for Secular Drama

The Renaissance heralded a revival of interest in classical antiquity and propelled European drama towards secular storytelling. Italy's Commedia dell'arte, characterized by its improvised performances and stock characters, exemplified this shift. This period also witnessed a surge in dramatic arts in Spain, France, and England, where Shakespeare and his contemporaries crafted works that defined a golden age of theatre. These developments occurred despite intermittent opposition, including Puritanical censorship and outright bans on performances.

Romanticism and Realism in 19th-Century European Drama

The 19th century saw the rise of Romanticism, which emphasized emotion and individualism, and melodrama, known for its sensationalism. The latter part of the century marked a turn towards Realism, with playwrights such as Henrik Ibsen and Anton Chekhov focusing on everyday life and the inner workings of the human psyche. This shift towards realistic portrayals in settings, costumes, and dialogue influenced the direction of drama, paving the way for modern theatrical expressions.

The Advent of Modernism and Diversification in 20th-Century Drama

The 20th century introduced new movements like Symbolism and Expressionism, which diverged from the established norms of Realism and Naturalism. Playwrights such as Maurice Maeterlinck and August Strindberg presented audiences with abstract, stylized works. The impact of World War I and the Modernist movement fostered a more somber literary atmosphere, with dramatists like Bertolt Brecht employing Epic Theatre to engage audiences in critical reflection on societal issues.

Post-War European Drama and the Emergence of the Theatre of the Absurd

In the wake of World War II, European drama continued to evolve as a platform for social critique. The Theatre of Cruelty and the Theatre of the Absurd, with proponents like Antonin Artaud and Samuel Beckett, utilized unconventional narrative techniques to delve into existential questions and the inherent absurdity of human existence. These avant-garde movements had a profound impact on European playwrights and contributed significantly to the diversity of post-war European drama.

The Evolution of Contemporary European Drama in a Globalized World

As the 21st century unfolds, European drama has embraced the challenges and opportunities of globalization and technological innovation. Contemporary playwrights are exploring a multitude of voices and experimental forms, often integrating multimedia to enrich the theatrical experience. This continuous evolution underscores the adaptability of European drama and its ongoing relevance in the global cultural discourse.

Defining Features of European Drama

European drama is characterized by its historical origins in Europe and the enduring influence of ancient Greek theatrical forms, particularly the genres of comedy and tragedy. These foundational genres continue to inform the structure and analysis of modern drama. Comedies often engage with social critique through humor, while tragedies typically focus on the downfall of a central tragic hero, eliciting a cathartic response from the audience. These persistent elements affirm the timeless appeal of European drama and its ability to evolve alongside societal changes.