Bronson Howard

Definition

Bronson Howard was an influential American playwright in the late 19th century, often regarded as one of the first professional American dramatists. He is known for his works that contributed to the emergence of American theatre, emphasizing themes relevant to contemporary society and the American experience. His notable plays helped pave the way for future playwrights and shaped the evolution of theatrical storytelling in the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bronson Howard's most famous play, 'Shenandoah', premiered in 1889 and became a significant work that reflected American themes.
2. He was one of the first American playwrights to earn a living solely from writing plays, showcasing the potential for theatre as a professional pursuit.
3. Howard's works often depicted moral dilemmas and social issues, making him a precursor to later American playwrights who would tackle similar themes.
4. In addition to writing plays, he also contributed to theatrical criticism, helping to elevate the standards and expectations of American theatre.
5. Howard's influence extended beyond his lifetime, inspiring future generations of playwrights who sought to explore and express American identity on stage.

Review Questions

• How did Bronson Howard contribute to the professionalization of American theatre during his time?
  • Bronson Howard was pivotal in establishing a career path for playwrights by being one of the first to make a living exclusively from writing plays. His success demonstrated that it was possible for American dramatists to thrive professionally, setting a standard that encouraged others to pursue playwriting as a viable career. This shift helped legitimize theatre as an art form in America, moving away from amateur productions towards more polished and professional presentations.
• In what ways did Bronson Howard's works reflect societal issues relevant to his time, and how did this impact American theatre?
  • Bronson Howard's plays often tackled moral dilemmas and social issues, reflecting the complexities of American life in the late 19th century. By addressing contemporary themes such as family dynamics and social justice, he engaged audiences with relevant content that resonated with their experiences. This approach not only set a precedent for future playwrights to explore similar societal topics but also enriched the depth of American theatre, paving the way for more meaningful storytelling.
• Evaluate Bronson Howard's legacy in relation to subsequent movements in American drama and how his influence is seen today.
  • Bronson Howard's legacy can be seen as foundational for subsequent movements in American drama, particularly Realism and later forms of contemporary theatre. His ability to weave societal issues into compelling narratives inspired later playwrights to explore the human condition with authenticity. Today, his impact is evident in how modern playwrights continue to address complex themes relevant to American identity, reflecting on cultural narratives that are still pertinent. His work helped shape a national theatre that resonates with diverse audiences and reflects their realities.

Related terms

Theatre of the Absurd: A post-World War II theatrical movement that highlights the absurdity of human existence, often characterized by illogical and nonsensical plots.

Realism: A literary and artistic movement that began in the mid-19th century, focusing on depicting everyday life and society without romanticization or idealization.

Playwright: A person who writes plays, responsible for creating the dialogue, characters, and plot structure in theatrical works.