06/10/2025
World Dramatic Literature: A Brief Introduction
Dramatic Literature encompasses the body of written works designed for theatrical performance by actors, commonly known as plays or drama. Its history is vast, originating in Ancient Greece around the 6th century BCE with the development of formal tragedy (like the works of Sophocles and Euripides) and comedy (like Aristophanes).
From these roots, drama evolved across different cultures and periods. Key developments include:
Medieval Drama: Focused largely on religious themes, with mystery and morality plays.
The Renaissance: A golden age, especially in England with playwrights like Shakespeare, who mastered a wide array of genres from history to tragedy and comedy.
The Neoclassical Era: Emphasized strict rules and classical forms, particularly in France.
Modern and Contemporary Drama: The 20th and 21st centuries saw a shift towards Realism, exploring ordinary life and social issues (e.g., Ibsen, Miller, Williams), as well as experimental movements like the Theatre of the Absurd (e.g., Beckett).
Globally, dramatic literature reflects diverse traditions, from Indian Sanskrit drama to Chinese opera and Japanese Kabuki and Noh, each offering unique perspectives on human conflict, society, and the enduring themes of good, evil, and fate.
