Humanism

Definition

Humanism is an intellectual movement that emphasizes the value and agency of human beings, focusing on human potential and achievements rather than divine or supernatural matters. This outlook paved the way for a renewed interest in classical texts and the arts, influencing various forms of drama and theatre throughout history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Humanism originated during the Renaissance as scholars sought to reconnect with classical literature, philosophy, and art, leading to a dramatic shift in cultural production.
2. It emphasized critical thinking and empirical evidence, encouraging playwrights to explore themes related to human experience, morality, and society instead of solely religious narratives.
3. Humanism influenced the development of secular drama, which began to emerge as artists sought to portray everyday life and individual character rather than just biblical stories.
4. The University Wits were a group of playwrights who embraced humanist ideals, creating complex characters and sophisticated plots that reflected contemporary social issues.
5. The impact of humanism extended beyond its time, shaping subsequent theatrical traditions and continuing to influence drama’s evolution well into the modern era.

Review Questions

• How did humanism change the themes explored in drama during its emergence?
  • Humanism shifted the focus of drama from primarily religious themes to a broader range of human experiences and emotions. Playwrights began to explore individual motivations, societal issues, and moral dilemmas, allowing for more complex characters and plots. This change represented a significant departure from the earlier religiously dominated narratives, embracing themes that resonated with audiences' everyday lives.
• Discuss the role of the University Wits in shaping the early modern English theatre through humanist principles.
  • The University Wits were instrumental in incorporating humanist ideas into early modern English theatre. They were educated playwrights who brought classical knowledge into their works, creating sophisticated plays that featured well-developed characters and intricate plots. Their contributions laid the groundwork for future playwrights like Shakespeare, marking a pivotal moment where humanist thought began to dominate theatrical storytelling.
• Evaluate how the influence of humanism has persisted in contemporary theatre practices.
  • The legacy of humanism continues to impact contemporary theatre practices by emphasizing character development, moral complexity, and social relevance. Modern playwrights often draw on humanist ideals to create narratives that resonate with current societal issues, focusing on individual perspectives and personal experiences. This enduring influence showcases how humanism not only transformed early theatre but also remains a vital element in engaging audiences through compelling storytelling.

Related terms

Renaissance: A cultural movement from the 14th to the 17th century that marked a revival of interest in the classical art, literature, and philosophy of Ancient Greece and Rome.

Classical Drama: Theatrical works from ancient Greece and Rome that laid the foundation for modern Western theatre, characterized by their structured plots, themes of fate, and exploration of human emotions.

Secularism: The principle of separating religion from civic affairs and government, allowing for a focus on human experiences and rational thought in cultural expressions like drama.