19th Century Theater

Home > Performing Arts > Theater History > 19th Century Theater

The theater of the 19th century, which was marked by the emergence of realism and naturalism. It also saw the rise of melodrama and the influence of new technologies such as gas lighting and machinery.

What movements or styles characterized nineteenth-century theatre in Europe and the United States?

- "Romanticism, melodrama, the well-made plays of Scribe and Sardou, the farces of Feydeau, the problem plays of Naturalism and Realism, Wagner's operatic Gesamtkunstwerk, Gilbert and Sullivan's plays and operas, Wilde's drawing-room comedies, Symbolism, and proto-Expressionism in the late works of August Strindberg and Henrik Ibsen."

What were some specific examples of well-known playwrights or composers of the time?

- "Scribe and Sardou, Feydeau, Wagner, Gilbert and Sullivan, Wilde, August Strindberg, and Henrik Ibsen."

What movement emphasized intense emotion, individualism, and imagination?

- "Romanticism."

Which style focused on exaggerated emotions and sensational plots?

- "Melodrama."

What type of plays were known for their well-constructed plots and intricate details?

- "The well-made plays of Scribe and Sardou."

Which playwright was known for his comedic farces?

- "Feydeau."

Which artistic movement explored the harsh realities of life and depicted characters from diverse social backgrounds?

- "Naturalism and Realism."

What was Wagner known for in the realm of theatre?

- "Wagner's operatic Gesamtkunstwerk."

Who were famous for their collaboration in creating plays and operas?

- "Gilbert and Sullivan."

Who wrote drawing-room comedies that satirized social conventions and manners?

- "Wilde."

What artistic movement explored the realm of the subconscious and used symbols to convey deeper meanings?

- "Symbolism."

Whose late works displayed elements of proto-Expressionism?

- "The late works of August Strindberg and Henrik Ibsen."

How can the theatrical culture of the nineteenth century be described in geographical terms?

- "In the West."

What were some characteristics of Romanticism?

- "Intense emotion, individualism, and imagination."

Which theatre genre emphasized exaggerated emotions and sensational plots?

- "Melodrama."

Who were some significant playwrights of well-made plays during this era?

- "Scribe and Sardou."

What playwright was known for his comedic farces?

- "Feydeau."

Which artistic movements focused on depicting harsh realities and diverse characters?

- "Naturalism and Realism."

What was Wagner's contribution to theatre?

- "Wagner's operatic Gesamtkunstwerk."

What were some examples of plays that combined music and drama?

- "Gilbert and Sullivan's plays and operas."