Restoration Tragedy

Definition

Restoration Tragedy refers to a style of drama that emerged in England during the Restoration period, primarily from the late 17th century to the early 18th century. This genre is characterized by its serious tone, complex characters, and often tragic themes that highlight moral dilemmas and human suffering. Restoration Tragedy was influenced by earlier classical tragedies and marked a departure from the comedic and lighter styles of Restoration comedy, reflecting the shifting social and political landscape of post-Civil War England.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Restoration Tragedy often dealt with themes such as love, betrayal, and revenge, reflecting the complex emotional landscape of the time.
2. Playwrights like John Dryden and Thomas Otway were prominent figures in the development of Restoration Tragedy, contributing significant works that are still studied today.
3. The genre frequently employed heroic figures who faced moral dilemmas, showcasing their internal struggles in the face of societal expectations.
4. Unlike earlier forms of tragedy, which often ended in death or disaster, some Restoration Tragedies included elements of redemption or resolution to provide a more complex emotional experience.
5. Restoration Tragedy marked a shift in theatrical practices, paving the way for later dramatic movements by blending classical influences with contemporary issues.

Review Questions

• How does Restoration Tragedy differentiate itself from other forms of drama popular during the same period?
  • Restoration Tragedy is distinct from other forms like Restoration Comedy due to its serious themes and focus on moral dilemmas. While comedies from this time often embraced wit and humor with a lighter tone, tragedies delved into deeper emotional conflicts and portrayed characters grappling with significant life challenges. This contrast highlights how each genre reflected different aspects of society during the Restoration era.
• What role did key playwrights play in shaping the characteristics and themes of Restoration Tragedy?
  • Key playwrights such as John Dryden and Thomas Otway were instrumental in defining Restoration Tragedy through their exploration of complex characters and serious themes. Their works often incorporated elements like elevated language and moral struggles, setting a foundation for the genre. By addressing societal issues and personal conflicts within their plays, they contributed to a richer understanding of human emotions and experiences during this transformative period in English theatre.
• Evaluate the impact of Restoration Tragedy on later theatrical movements and how it influenced the evolution of dramatic literature.
  • Restoration Tragedy significantly impacted later theatrical movements by introducing elements that emphasized character depth and emotional complexity. Its blend of classical tragedy with contemporary themes laid the groundwork for subsequent styles, such as Romanticism and Modernism. By addressing moral ambiguities and personal struggles, Restoration Tragedy expanded the scope of dramatic literature, influencing playwrights in future generations to explore similar themes in innovative ways.

Related terms

Restoration Comedy:

A form of comedic drama that flourished during the Restoration period, known for its wit, satire, and often risqué themes, contrasting with the more serious nature of Restoration Tragedy.

Heroic Tragedy: A subgenre of tragedy that focuses on noble or heroic characters facing significant challenges and moral conflicts, often with an emphasis on elevated language and grand themes.

Blank Verse: A type of poetry used in Restoration Tragedy, characterized by unrhymed iambic pentameter, allowing for a more natural flow of speech while maintaining a formal structure.