Modernism Before WWI Symbolism and Futurism How do the goals of the different movements relate to each other How do the aesthetic choices they make relate to these goals How are they shaped by their particular historical moments Umbrella term for a variety of artistic movements in the early mid 20th century Modernism General Historical Contexts World Wars I and II Rises of Fascism and Communism Rise of cinema development of cinematic technologies Present in many arts not just theatre Self named rather than named by others Characteristics of Modernism Reaction against realism Originality novelty newness Master narratives of history capitalism communism fascism etc Acknowledges form of art a stage is a stage a canvas is a canvas Emphasis on technology for good or bad In performance pushes the boundaries of what we consider theatre Symbolism Begins in France mid 19th century Goal express truths too great or profound to be shown literally or realistically Frequent use of symbols to stand in for abstract concepts or those that cannot be represented properly Draws from the mythic mystical supernatural and dreams Symbolist Performance Frequently short poetic Characters as symbols Cathleen Ni Houlihan by W B Yeats and Lady Augusta Gregory 1902 Old woman as Ireland hypnotic power of Irish revolutionary spirit Futurism Historical context Pre WWI Italy Major figure Filippo Marinetti 1876 1944 Likes Italy masculinity technology noise Fascism war Dislikes women museums pasta men should eat meat manly stuff Aesthetics speed simultaneity sensory overload antagonizes the audience Variety show format Short pieces
View Full Document
Unlocking...