Royall Tyler

Definition

Royall Tyler was an American playwright and novelist, best known for his play 'The Contrast,' which is often credited as the first American comedy. His work reflects the cultural and social dynamics of early American society, showcasing the emerging themes of American identity and the tensions between European influence and local customs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Royall Tyler's 'The Contrast' premiered in 1787 in New York City, marking a significant moment in American theater history.
2. The play features two main characters that symbolize opposing viewpoints: the fashionable yet superficial city man and the sincere, virtuous country man.
3. Tyler's work was a reaction to European theatrical traditions, showcasing a distinctly American perspective and humor.
4. In addition to being a playwright, Tyler was also a lawyer and served as a judge in Vermont, reflecting his engagement with civic life.
5. Tyler's contributions helped pave the way for future American playwrights, establishing a foundation for the development of a unique American theatrical tradition.

Review Questions

• How does Royall Tyler's play 'The Contrast' reflect the cultural tensions present in early American society?
  • 'The Contrast' illustrates the cultural tensions between European influences and emerging American values through its characters. The dandy represents European sophistication and artifice, while the honest American character embodies virtue and simplicity. This clash highlights the struggle for an American identity during a time when the nation was still defining itself separate from its colonial past.
• Discuss the significance of Royall Tyler's work in the context of the emergence of American theater during his time.
  • 'The Contrast' holds significance as it marked one of the first successful attempts to create an original American comedy. By diverging from European theatrical traditions, Tyler contributed to establishing a unique voice in American drama. His work laid the groundwork for future playwrights by demonstrating that themes relevant to American life could engage audiences and reflect societal values.
• Evaluate Royall Tyler's impact on American literature and theater by analyzing his themes and character portrayals in 'The Contrast.'
  • 'The Contrast' showcases themes such as virtue versus vice and the importance of authenticity over superficiality. Through its character portrayals, Tyler critiques both the American obsession with European fashion and manners while promoting native qualities of sincerity and integrity. This duality not only entertains but also encourages audiences to reflect on their values, making Tyler's work a crucial contribution to the growth of American literature that continues to resonate today.

Related terms

The Contrast: A comedic play written by Royall Tyler in 1787, focusing on the contrasts between American and European values, particularly through the characters of a city-dwelling dandy and a simple, honest American man.

American Enlightenment: An intellectual movement in the 18th century that emphasized reason, science, and individualism over tradition; it greatly influenced American literature and theater, including Tyler's works.

Sentimentalism: A literary movement that emphasized emotion and individual feelings, often seen in early American literature and influencing playwrights like Tyler in their portrayal of characters and themes.