Zeami Motokiyo

Definition

Zeami Motokiyo was a prominent Japanese playwright and actor, widely regarded as the founder of Noh theater, a traditional form of Japanese drama characterized by its slow movements, poetic dialogue, and stylized performances. He developed the aesthetics of Noh and articulated its philosophical underpinnings, emphasizing the importance of the actor's inner emotions and the connection between art and life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Zeami was born in 1363 and was the son of Kan'ami, another influential figure in the development of Noh theater.
2. He wrote several important treatises on Noh performance, including 'Fushikaden,' which outlines his theories on acting, aesthetics, and the nature of performance.
3. Zeami emphasized the concept of 'yūgen,' which refers to a profound, mysterious beauty that should be expressed through subtlety in performance.
4. His work laid the foundation for Noh theater's unique style, which contrasts with other forms of Japanese theater like Kabuki that are more vibrant and dynamic.
5. Zeami's influence extended beyond theater; he also contributed to Japanese aesthetics and cultural thought, impacting various art forms throughout history.

Review Questions

• How did Zeami Motokiyo contribute to the development of Noh theater?
  • Zeami Motokiyo played a crucial role in shaping Noh theater by establishing its foundational principles and aesthetics. He emphasized subtle emotional expression and the concept of 'yūgen,' promoting a style that relies on restraint and depth rather than flamboyant displays. His writings, including 'Fushikaden,' provided a framework for performers to explore these ideas and helped define the artistic vision of Noh.
• Discuss the significance of Zeami's concept of 'yūgen' in Noh theater performances.
  • The concept of 'yūgen' is significant in Noh theater as it encapsulates the elusive beauty that emerges from subtlety and depth. For Zeami, capturing 'yūgen' required actors to convey emotions with understated movements and poetic language, allowing audiences to engage with the performance on a deeper level. This focus on refined beauty distinguishes Noh from more energetic forms of Japanese theater, fostering an appreciation for the inner life of characters.
• Evaluate how Zeami's theories influenced other forms of Japanese performing arts beyond Noh theater.
  • Zeami's theories have had a lasting impact not only on Noh but also on other Japanese performing arts like Kabuki and Bunraku. His ideas about aesthetics, character portrayal, and emotional depth encouraged performers in these genres to seek similar qualities in their work. As a result, elements such as restrained expression and a focus on thematic depth became common across various art forms, enriching the overall landscape of Japanese culture and performance.

Related terms

Noh Theater: A classical Japanese theatrical art that combines drama, music, and dance, often focusing on themes from Japanese literature and history.

Kagura: A traditional form of Shinto music and dance that serves as a precursor to Noh theater, often performed at shrines during festivals.

Waki: A secondary character in Noh theater who often interacts with the main character (shite) and helps to advance the plot.