Decorum

Definition

Decorum refers to the appropriateness of behavior, speech, and actions in a given context, especially within the realm of art and literature. It emphasizes the need for characters to behave in a manner consistent with their social status and the overall tone of the work, ensuring a level of dignity and respect is maintained throughout. In this framework, decorum plays a vital role in how the audience perceives both the characters and the narrative.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Decorum is rooted in classical ideas of propriety, influencing how characters are portrayed in tragedies, ensuring they reflect their societal roles.
2. In neoclassical tragedy, decorum dictates that noble characters must exhibit dignity and restraint, while lower-class characters can display more emotion and spontaneity.
3. This concept also extends to language, where elevated speech is expected from higher-status characters, aligning with their noble qualities.
4. Decorum is closely linked to moral instruction; it serves to convey ethical messages through appropriate character behavior and interactions.
5. Violations of decorum can lead to audience discomfort or disbelief, disrupting the emotional connection to the narrative and diminishing its impact.

Review Questions

• How does decorum influence character development in neoclassical tragedy?
  • Decorum significantly shapes character development in neoclassical tragedy by establishing expectations for behavior and speech based on social status. Noble characters are required to maintain a sense of dignity and restraint, which reflects their elevated position in society. This adherence to decorum helps audiences understand the moral fabric of the narrative and reinforces the consequences of deviating from societal norms.
• Analyze the role of decorum in maintaining audience engagement during neoclassical tragedies.
  • Decorum plays a crucial role in maintaining audience engagement by ensuring that characters act appropriately within their societal roles. When characters adhere to decorum, it creates a believable world where the audience can connect emotionally with the story. However, if characters violate these norms, it disrupts the narrative flow, causing audiences to question the authenticity of their experiences and potentially leading to disengagement.
• Evaluate how the concept of decorum affects the moral lessons conveyed in neoclassical tragedies.
  • The concept of decorum deeply impacts the moral lessons conveyed in neoclassical tragedies by serving as a framework for ethical behavior. Characters that embody decorum often demonstrate virtues that align with societal values, providing clear examples for audiences to follow. Conversely, when characters violate decorum, it typically leads to tragic consequences, reinforcing moral teachings about the importance of adhering to societal norms and expectations. This interplay between decorum and morality enriches the narrative while imparting critical lessons on human behavior.

Related terms

Unity: A principle in art and literature that emphasizes a sense of coherence and harmony in the overall composition or narrative.

Verisimilitude: The appearance of being true or real within a work, allowing audiences to suspend disbelief and engage with the story.

Mimesis:

The imitation of life in art and literature, where works reflect reality to evoke emotions and understanding in the audience.