Auto sacramental

Definition

An auto sacramental is a one-act play focused on religious themes, particularly the Eucharist, that emerged in Spain during the Golden Age. These plays were performed primarily during religious festivals and were characterized by their allegorical nature, blending drama with religious instruction to convey moral and spiritual lessons to the audience. Their significance lies in their reflection of the deep intertwining of faith and theatrical expression in Spanish culture during this period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The auto sacramental was primarily developed by playwrights like Pedro Calderón de la Barca, who became known for elevating this form to a high level of artistry.
2. These plays often included complex allegories that depicted the struggle between good and evil, reflecting the spiritual concerns of the time.
3. Auto sacramentals were typically performed outdoors in corrales, which were open-air theaters that became popular in Spain during the 17th century.
4. The format allowed for a blend of theatrical performance with liturgical elements, making the experience both dramatic and worshipful for audiences.
5. Although they faced criticism from some religious authorities for their theatricality, auto sacramentals played a crucial role in shaping public perceptions of Catholic doctrine.

Review Questions

• How did the auto sacramental reflect the religious and cultural context of Spain during its time?
  • The auto sacramental reflected the religious fervor and cultural context of Spain during the Golden Age by intertwining theatrical performance with Catholic teachings. These plays served not only as entertainment but also as a means of educating the public about key theological concepts, particularly the Eucharist. They showcased the importance of faith in everyday life and highlighted moral dilemmas that resonated with audiences, thereby reinforcing community values rooted in Catholicism.
• What role did Calderón de la Barca play in the development of auto sacramentals, and how did his works influence Spanish theatre?
  • Calderón de la Barca was instrumental in elevating the auto sacramental to an art form that combined deep philosophical questions with intricate allegory. His works often explored themes of divine grace and human struggle, setting a standard for subsequent playwrights. Through his contributions, Calderón enriched Spanish theatre by blending dramatic storytelling with theological exploration, ultimately influencing the broader landscape of Spanish literature and drama.
• Evaluate how auto sacramentals contributed to the evolution of public perception regarding religious practices in Spain during the Golden Age.
  • Auto sacramentals significantly influenced public perception of religious practices by providing an accessible medium through which complex theological ideas could be conveyed. As these plays often took place in public settings and engaged audiences with visual spectacle and moral allegories, they transformed religious instruction into an interactive experience. This shift not only made religion more relatable but also fostered a communal sense of faith that aligned with the socio-political climate of Spain during the Golden Age, ultimately reinforcing Catholic values in society.

Related terms

Comedia: A genre of Spanish theater that combines elements of tragedy and comedy, often focusing on themes of love, honor, and social issues.

Eucharist: A Christian sacrament commemorating the Last Supper, where bread and wine are consecrated and consumed, representing the body and blood of Christ.

Allegory: A narrative technique in which characters or events symbolize deeper meanings or moral lessons, often used in auto sacramentals to convey religious themes.