Origins of traditional Theatre and Epic Theatre
Traditional theatre has its roots in ancient Greek drama, where playwrights such as Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides laid the foundation for Western theatrical traditions. This form of theatre evolved through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, prominently featuring in the works of William Shakespeare, Molière, and later, Henrik Ibsen and Anton Chekhov.
Traditional theatre, sometimes referred to as the ‘dramatic theatre’ or ‘Aristotelian theatre’, is characterised by its emphasis on linear narratives, cause-and-effect progression, and fully developed characters. It seeks to immerse the audience in the story, encouraging emotional identification with the characters by providing a form of escapism that reinforces society’s values.
Epic Theatre emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the social and political turmoil of the time, particularly in post-World War I Germany. Bertolt Brecht, a German playwright and director, is the key practitioner associated with this movement. Influenced by Marxist theory and critical of the capitalist society, Brecht aimed to create a form of theatre that would inspire audiences to think critically about social issues, motivating them to enact change. Epic Theatre breaks away from the conventions of traditional theatre by employing techniques that prevent the audience from becoming emotionally absorbed in the narrative, a concept known as the “Verfremdungseffekt“.
Stylistic Differences
Stylistically, traditional theatre focuses primarily on realism and naturalism. Productions often feature detailed and realistic sets, concealed stage mechanics, and actors who fully embody their characters, commonly via Method Acting techniques. The narrative unfolds in a continuous, logical sequence, evoking emotional responses from the audience.
In contrast, Epic Theatre utilises minimalist and symbolic sets, exposed lighting, and direct addresses to the audience. Actors present their characters by demonstrating actions rather than fully immersing themselves, often using “Gestus” (pronounced ‘guest-oos’)—a combination of gesture and social commentary—to highlight social issues.
Influences
The influences on traditional theatre stem from philosophies that emphasise universal human experiences and moral lessons. It often upholds existing social structures by reinforcing traditional values.
Epic Theatre, however, is deeply rooted in Marxist philosophy. It challenges audiences to question authority by presenting themes such as class struggle, war, and the impacts of capitalism. Several of Brecht’s plays, such as “Mother Courage and Her Children” and “The Threepenny Opera,” serve as critical examinations of society, aiming to provoke thought rather than provide escapist entertainment.
Differences Between Traditional theatre and Epic Theatre
This comprehensive comparative table, below, outlines the key differences between traditional theatre and Epic Theatre in 40 different areas such as theatre-making, acting, design, language, rehearsal, structure, performance, and more. It serves as an excellent gateway for students and teachers of Drama and Theatre Arts to understand one of the most influential theatre forms of the 20th century, particularly in educational circles, and how this contrasts to the standard conventions of traditional theatre practice.
Bertolt Brecht
The Great European Stage Directors Volume 2:…
Mother Courage and her Children (Student Editions)
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Aspect | Traditional Theatre | Epic Theatre |
Audience Engagement | - Emotionally engaged and passive | - Critical and detached |
Dramatic Structure | - Linear plot | - Episodic scenes |
Purpose | - Entertain and evoke emotions | - Inspire change and question society |
Techniques and Conventions | - Suspension of disbelief | - Breaking the fourth wall |
Characters | - Fully developed individuals | - Archetypal or representational |
Acting Style | - Representational acting | - Presentational acting |
Stage Design | - Realistic and detailed sets | - Minimalist and symbolic sets |
Dialogue | - Naturalistic dialogue | - Didactic and direct |
Music and Sound | - Enhancing use of music | - Disruptive use of music |
Emotional Engagement | - Emotional catharsis sought | - Rational response encouraged |
Themes | - Universal human experiences | - Social and political critique |
Time and Place | - Specific and consistent settings | - Non-specific or varied settings |
Role of the Director | - Facilitator of the playwright's vision | - Interpreter and innovator |
Rehearsal Process | - Character immersion | - Exploratory and analytical |
Props and Costumes | - Detailed and realistic | - Symbolic and minimalist |
Lighting and Effects | - Atmospheric and concealed | - Exposed and functional |
Actor-Audience Relationship | - Passive observation | - Active engagement |
Narrative Style | - Continuous and immersive | - Didactic and disjointed |
Influence and Legacy | - Foundation of Western theatre | - Theatre as a social change agent |
Training and Preparation | - Emotional authenticity | - Intellectual understanding |
Philosophical Foundations | - Aristotelian and humanist | - Marxist and dialectical |
Critical Reception | - Broadly accepted | - Initially controversial |
Examples of Works | - Shakespeare's "Hamlet" - Anton Chekhov's "The Sea-Gull" - Henrik Ibsen's "A Doll's House" | - Bertolt Brecht's "Mother Courage and Her Children" and "The Threepenny Opera" |
Educational Impact | - Foundation of acting education | - Critical thinking focus |
Cultural Context | - Ancient Greek roots | - 20th-century Germany |
Humour | - Varied from comedic to tragic | - Satirical and ironic |
Moral Perspective | - Absolute morals | - Relativistic and questioning |
Emphasis on Reality | - Realism and naturalism | - Theatricalism |
Technology | - Enhancement of illusion | - Functional integration |
Audience Demographics | - Broad appeal | - Targeted at critical thinkers |
Censorship and Controversy | - Generally accepted | - Often subject to censorship |
Financial | - Higher production costs | - Lower production costs |
Venues | - Established theatres | - Alternative spaces |
Language | - Standardised language | - Political and sociolects |
Adaptability | - Fixed interpretation | - Flexible interpretation |
Impact on Modern Theatre | - Continues to influence mainstream media | - Influences experimental and political theatre |
Space | - Traditional stage setups | - Innovative use of space |
Cultural Relevance | - Often reinforces cultural norms | - Challenges cultural assumptions |
Impact on Society | - Provides entertainment and escapism | - Acts as a catalyst for social change |
Role of the Playwright | - Authoritative figure | - Collaborative creator |