Neoclassicism

Definition

Neoclassicism is an artistic and cultural movement that emerged in the 18th century, characterized by a revival of classical ideals from ancient Greece and Rome, particularly in literature and the arts. This movement emphasized reason, order, and the adherence to established rules and principles, reflecting a desire to connect with the rationality of classical antiquity. Neoclassicism influenced various playwrights and theatrical traditions, marking a shift towards structured forms and themes drawn from classical sources.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Neoclassicism drew heavily on the works of ancient playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides, emphasizing moral lessons and rationality in storytelling.
2. Ben Jonson's works served as a bridge between earlier comedic styles and neoclassical ideals, reflecting a blend of satire and adherence to classical structure.
3. The neoclassical approach favored dramatic unities—unity of time, place, and action—leading to tighter narratives compared to earlier theatrical traditions.
4. This movement paved the way for later theatrical developments by influencing playwrights like Molière and Racine, who incorporated classical themes and structures into their works.
5. Neoclassicism also prioritized decorum in character behavior and language, leading to heightened expectations for moral integrity among characters on stage.

Review Questions

• How did neoclassicism reflect the values of its time through its emphasis on classical ideals?
  • Neoclassicism mirrored the Enlightenment values by prioritizing reason and order over emotional expression. This revival of classical ideals promoted structured narratives and moral lessons, which aligned with society's growing appreciation for rational thought. By adhering to established rules derived from ancient Greek and Roman texts, neoclassical playwrights aimed to elevate drama to a level that reflected the sophistication and intellectual rigor of their own era.
• In what ways did Ben Jonson's satirical comedy align with or diverge from neoclassical principles?
  • Ben Jonson's satirical comedies often aligned with neoclassical principles through their structured plots and moral lessons. However, they also diverged by incorporating sharp social criticism and humor that challenged societal norms. While Jonson adhered to some aspects of classical unity and decorum, his focus on character flaws and contemporary issues introduced a more complex exploration of human behavior than what strict neoclassical guidelines typically allowed.
• Evaluate the lasting influence of neoclassicism on subsequent theatrical traditions beyond its initial period.
  • The influence of neoclassicism can be seen in how it established foundational rules for dramatic writing that persisted into modern theatre. Its emphasis on structure, character morality, and unity shaped later movements, such as realism and naturalism. These movements evolved by adapting neoclassical ideals to fit new social contexts while maintaining a focus on character-driven narratives. This legacy demonstrates how neoclassicism not only defined its own era but also laid the groundwork for future explorations in dramatic storytelling.

Related terms

Aristotelian Poetics: A foundational text that outlines the principles of drama, including unity of time, place, and action, which became essential guidelines for neoclassical playwrights.

Renaissance:

A cultural movement that preceded neoclassicism, emphasizing the revival of classical learning and arts but was more focused on individual expression and humanism.

Comedy of Manners: A genre that arose during the Restoration period, often satirizing the manners and affectations of a particular social class, showing an evolution from earlier forms of comedy.