Bourgeois society

Definition

Bourgeois society refers to the social class that emerged during the rise of capitalism, characterized by its ownership of the means of production and its role in the economic and cultural development of modern societies. This class typically included merchants, industrialists, and professionals who valued individualism, private property, and economic success, which influenced various aspects of life including politics, culture, and, notably, the theatre. The emergence of bourgeois society marked a shift from feudal structures to a capitalist framework, setting the stage for dramatic changes in art and performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The rise of bourgeois society in the 19th century was closely linked to the Industrial Revolution, which transformed economies and created new wealth for a growing middle class.
2. Bourgeois society placed a high value on education, leading to an increase in literacy rates and a demand for cultural productions that reflected their values and experiences.
3. The themes explored in realist theatre often mirrored the concerns and conflicts of bourgeois society, including social issues like marriage, morality, and class dynamics.
4. Bourgeois audiences became prominent patrons of the arts during this period, influencing the types of plays produced and the manner in which they were staged.
5. The critique of bourgeois values became a central theme for many playwrights during the Realism movement, challenging societal norms around wealth, morality, and individualism.

Review Questions

• How did the emergence of bourgeois society influence theatrical themes during the Realism movement?
  • The emergence of bourgeois society had a profound impact on theatrical themes during the Realism movement as playwrights sought to represent the realities of middle-class life. The focus shifted towards exploring issues relevant to this class such as family dynamics, social responsibilities, and moral dilemmas. Realist theatre became a mirror reflecting the complexities of bourgeois values, showcasing both their aspirations and contradictions.
• In what ways did bourgeois society contribute to changes in audience demographics within the theatre during the 19th century?
  • Bourgeois society significantly changed audience demographics within the theatre as middle-class individuals began to fill seats in larger numbers. This shift led theatres to cater to their tastes and preferences by presenting works that aligned with their values. As a result, theatrical productions began to focus more on relatable narratives that highlighted everyday life and moral quandaries faced by this emerging social class.
• Evaluate how playwrights reacted to bourgeois values in their works during the Realism movement and what impact this had on the evolution of modern theatre.
  • Playwrights reacted critically to bourgeois values during the Realism movement by exposing the flaws and contradictions inherent within them. This critical lens not only challenged societal norms but also pushed audiences to reflect on their own lives and beliefs. The impact of this reaction led to an evolution in modern theatre where realism became a standard, influencing subsequent movements such as Naturalism and even Postmodernism by continuing to question societal constructs and celebrate diverse perspectives.

Related terms

Capitalism: An economic system where private individuals own and control property and businesses, emphasizing profit-making through competition.

Realism: A movement in theatre that sought to represent everyday life and society accurately, often focusing on the experiences of the bourgeois class.

Class struggle: The conflict of interests between the different classes in society, particularly between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat.