Sentimental comedy

Definition

Sentimental comedy is a genre of theatrical comedy that emerged in the late 17th century, characterized by its focus on emotional appeal and moral lessons rather than purely humorous situations. This style of comedy seeks to evoke feelings of compassion and tenderness from the audience, often portraying virtuous characters who triumph over adversity, making it distinct from traditional farce and satire prevalent in earlier comedic forms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sentimental comedies were popularized during the 18th century as a response to the bawdy and often risqué themes of Restoration comedies, shifting focus toward more wholesome narratives.
2. They often included characters who faced moral dilemmas, with the resolution typically highlighting virtues like love, honor, and compassion.
3. Playwrights such as Richard Steele and George Lillo were notable figures in this genre, contributing significantly to its development and popularity.
4. Sentimental comedies frequently employed the use of tears and emotional moments to draw audiences into the characters' struggles and resolutions.
5. While they were initially embraced for their positive themes, some critics later argued that sentimental comedies could be overly idealistic or unrealistic in their portrayals of virtue.

Review Questions

• How does sentimental comedy differ from Restoration comedy in terms of themes and character development?
  • Sentimental comedy diverges from Restoration comedy primarily through its emphasis on emotional depth and moral lessons rather than the satirical and often risqué themes typical of Restoration works. While Restoration comedies focused on the follies of upper-class society with a lighthearted tone, sentimental comedies presented virtuous characters facing moral challenges, aiming to elicit empathy from the audience. This shift in focus from humor rooted in social critique to emotional engagement marked a significant evolution in theatrical storytelling.
• Discuss the influence of moral sentiment on the narrative structure of sentimental comedies and how it shapes audience reactions.
  • Moral sentiment plays a critical role in shaping the narrative structure of sentimental comedies by prioritizing emotional connections and ethical considerations within the plot. Characters are often placed in situations that evoke compassion and empathy, leading audiences to reflect on their own moral values. This focus on emotional engagement means that resolutions typically reinforce virtuous behavior, prompting audiences not just to laugh but also to feel deeply invested in the characters' journeys. As a result, viewers leave with a sense of moral upliftment alongside entertainment.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of sentimental comedy on modern theater and its relationship with contemporary forms like melodrama.
  • Sentimental comedy has left a significant legacy on modern theater, influencing genres such as melodrama that continue to prioritize emotional engagement over mere humor. The elements of character-driven narratives and moral dilemmas seen in sentimental comedies resonate in contemporary storytelling, where complex emotions are often explored. Additionally, the techniques used to evoke empathy and compassion are integral to today's theater productions, as audiences increasingly seek stories that not only entertain but also touch their hearts. This evolution underscores how sentimental comedy laid foundational principles for engaging audiences through deep emotional connections.

Related terms

Restoration Comedy:

A genre of comedy that flourished during the Restoration period in England, marked by its satirical take on social norms, sexual politics, and the upper class.

Moral Sentiment: The philosophical idea that moral judgments arise from feelings and emotions rather than reason, influencing the emotional tone of sentimental comedy.

Melodrama: A dramatic form that emphasizes exaggerated emotions and clear moral distinctions, often featuring a heroic protagonist facing overwhelming odds.