Lecture Notes: Realism in Theater

Introduction

• Emergence of Realism in reaction to melodrama
• Advocated by more educated theatergoers
• Opposed to special effects and sensationalism

Significance of Realism

• Arguably the most significant development in theater since Shakespeare
• Current acting techniques in film, TV, and theater still draw from realism

Characteristics of Realism

Set Design

• Detailed, realistic set pieces
  • Example: Henrik Ibsen’s "The Doll's House"
  • Features typical of the era, e.g., chairs, rugs, curtains, bookshelves, and functional light fixtures
• Comparative example with another Ibsen play, "Hedda Gabler"
  • Functional chandeliers and realistic carpet

Themes and Focus

• Focus on drama and beauty of everyday life
• Involves ordinary people in domestic settings
• Contrast with melodrama’s exotic and adventurous settings
• Incorporates elements of science and Darwinism
• Often called psychological drama

Purpose

• To portray the drama and beauty of everyday life (important for quizzes)
• Examines human behavior and interactions in various relationships

Influential Playwrights

Henrik Ibsen (Norwegian)

• Major figure in realism
• Famous plays: "A Doll's House," "Hedda Gabler," "The Master Builder"
• Addressed social issues:
  • "A Doll's House": Woman confined to motherhood and housewifery
  • "Hedda Gabler": Abusive marriage and personal struggles
  • "The Master Builder": Obsession with fame and success

Anton Chekhov (Russian)

• Significant works: "The Seagull," "Uncle Vanya," "The Three Sisters," "The Cherry Orchard"
• Depicted realistic details of Russian life

Stanislavski and Realistic Acting

• Konstantin Stanislavski, actor and director
• Worked at Moscow Art Theater (MCAT)
• Playwright collaborations, especially with Chekhov
• Created scientific method for realistic acting
  • Reliable, repeatable performances
  • Laid foundation for modern acting techniques

Example of Realistic Detail

• Photo from production of "The Three Sisters"
  • Realistic furniture, portraits, religious icons, and authentic costumes
  • Real wine in goblets

Conclusion

• Overview of Romanticism, Melodrama, and Realism
• Future study: Compare Chekhov's "The Cherry Orchard" or Ibsen's "A Doll's House" with Zora Neale Hurston’s work