Neoclassicism

Definition

Neoclassicism is an artistic and literary movement that emerged in the 18th century, characterized by a return to the principles of classical antiquity, emphasizing order, clarity, and symmetry. This movement sought to revive the ideals of ancient Greek and Roman art and literature, influencing various forms of expression including theatre, which focused on moral lessons and human experience. Neoclassicism plays a pivotal role in the development of sentimental comedy and bourgeois drama, as it shaped the thematic and structural conventions that defined these genres during the period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Neoclassicism emphasized the importance of adhering to classical unities, which influenced the structure of plays in this period.
2. The movement valued reason over emotion, leading to a focus on moral lessons within plays rather than purely entertainment.
3. Prominent playwrights of neoclassicism included Pierre Corneille and Jean Racine, whose works exemplified the strict adherence to classical ideals.
4. Neoclassicism often featured stock characters and predictable plots, reinforcing moral teachings aimed at middle-class audiences.
5. The shift towards sentimental comedy within neoclassicism marked a departure from the more serious tones of earlier classic tragedies, appealing more directly to contemporary audiences' emotions.

Review Questions

• How did neoclassicism influence the structure and themes of sentimental comedy?
  • Neoclassicism greatly influenced sentimental comedy by instilling a focus on moral clarity and structured narratives. The adherence to classical unities meant that these plays often followed a tight storyline that emphasized emotional responses and moral dilemmas faced by characters. This framework allowed for relatable middle-class characters to navigate their challenges while delivering clear ethical messages, aligning with neoclassical values.
• Discuss how neoclassicism reflects the societal values of the 18th century through bourgeois drama.
  • Neoclassicism reflects 18th-century societal values through its emphasis on order, morality, and the elevation of middle-class experiences in bourgeois drama. By showcasing the lives of ordinary people grappling with their societal roles, neoclassical playwrights affirmed the importance of virtue and rationality as core principles. This shift highlighted changing perspectives on social hierarchy and the significance of individual moral choices within an increasingly complex society.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of neoclassicism on modern theatre practices and genres.
  • The long-term impact of neoclassicism on modern theatre practices can be seen in its enduring emphasis on structure, character development, and moral themes. While contemporary theatre has diversified in form and content, many genres still incorporate elements derived from neoclassical ideals. The influence is evident in how modern playwrights approach narrative cohesion and character arcs while also addressing moral complexities that resonate with audiences today, reflecting an evolution from strict classical forms to more experimental expressions.

Related terms

Sentimental Comedy: A genre of comedy that emphasizes emotional responses, often highlighting virtue and moral lessons, typically featuring middle-class characters.

Bourgeois Drama: A style of drama that focuses on the lives and struggles of the middle class, often portraying realistic characters and situations.

Classical Unities: The three rules derived from Aristotle's Poetics which dictate that a play should have unity of time, place, and action to create a cohesive narrative.