Decorum

Definition

Decorum refers to the appropriateness of behavior, language, and actions in relation to the social norms and expectations of a given context. In theatre, it signifies the importance of characters behaving in ways that are consistent with their social status and the genre of the play. This concept is essential in maintaining the unity and credibility of a performance, guiding playwrights and directors in crafting dialogues and actions that align with both character and narrative expectations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Decorum was a key principle of French neoclassical theatre, emphasizing that characters should act according to their rank and societal expectations.
2. Cardinal Richelieu's influence helped solidify decorum as an essential guideline in theatre, impacting the writings and performances during this period.
3. In plays by Jean Racine, decorum is meticulously observed, with characters reflecting their emotional states in ways appropriate to their social standing.
4. The architecture of French neoclassical theatres was designed to enhance decorum, providing a formal space that matched the elevated nature of the performances.
5. Decorum also extended to language in theatre; for instance, tragic characters spoke in elevated prose or verse while comedic characters used simpler language.

Review Questions

• How did decorum influence character development in the works of prominent playwrights during the neoclassical period?
  • Decorum significantly shaped character development as playwrights adhered to established social norms and expectations for different classes. This meant that characters needed to behave in ways that were consistent with their social standing and the genre of the play. For example, in Racine's tragedies, noble characters expressed deep emotions yet maintained a level of restraint that reflected their status, thereby enhancing the authenticity and depth of the drama.
• Discuss how Cardinal Richelieu's influence helped establish decorum as a critical standard in French theatre.
  • Cardinal Richelieu played a pivotal role in defining decorum within French theatre by promoting neoclassical ideals through the Académie Française. He emphasized that plays should reflect moral lessons and uphold societal values, leading to a strict adherence to decorum where characters' actions were expected to mirror their societal roles. This not only impacted the content of plays but also set high standards for actors' performances, reinforcing the need for appropriateness across various theatrical elements.
• Evaluate how adherence to decorum in theatre architecture reflects broader cultural values during the neoclassical era.
  • The design of French neoclassical theatres, with their symmetrical structures and grandeur, was a physical manifestation of decorum that mirrored the cultural values of order, beauty, and rationality prevalent during this era. These spaces were intentionally created to elevate performances and ensure that both actors and audience members engaged with a heightened sense of seriousness and respect for the art form. This architectural commitment to decorum reinforced social hierarchies and provided a framework within which the narratives unfolded, thereby deepening the audience's connection to both the story and its moral implications.

Related terms

Neoclassicism: A cultural movement that emerged in the 17th century, emphasizing the return to classical ideals of art and literature, focusing on reason, harmony, and decorum.

Unity of Time: A principle of neoclassical theatre stating that a play should take place within a single day, enhancing the decorum by ensuring the actions remain believable and coherent.

Tragic Flaw: A characteristic or trait that leads to the downfall of a protagonist, often explored through decorum as characters must align their flaws with their noble status.