1.3.1: Social And cultural context
Many plays can only be fully understood if one understands the time and circumstances in which they were written and performed.
key areas:
- Events and social issues
- Politics
- Ethics
- Cultural background
however, use context related information that is relative to the play’s central theme-don’t just “show off” knowledge
1.3.2: Theatrical Background
Some theatrical styles:
- Romanticism: late 18th-early 19th century, emphasis on the intensity of personal experience and emotions, and their importance. very irrational
- “Well Made” play: predominantly 19th century, systematic and elegant, but fairly simple in terms of characterisation-and somewhat bland, as they are very formulaic.
- Farce: mid 19th century, a comedy style consisting of sunsubtle physical and verbal humour. very anarchic and spontaneous
- Naturalism: Mid to late 19th century: an emphasis on real life, and an attempt to make theatre as realistic as possible, hence its name. The first real introduction of controversial relevant issues took place, however this unfortunately led to a lack of acceptance from mainstream audiences.
It is always worthwhile investigating plays of a similar time, genre or theme to that which is being studied as a comparison point, as this gives a deeper and more comprehensive background to the play than just reading about the various conditions in a historical textbook.
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