Théâtres de Société in France: A Salon Experiment and Laboratory of New Rules
Abstract
Théâtres de societé became one of the favourite amusements of aristocracy, noblemen, and wealthy bourgeoisie of the 18th-century France. Some required substantial funding (as in the case of Duchess du Maine or Madame de Pompadour), though they often did without elaborate decorations and sophisticated costumes; nearly always they were organised by women, nearly always in connection with activities of their salons. The newfound passion for private theatres, organised with the audience of friends in mind, contributed to the weakening of the hierarchical structure of French society. Actors, often giving lessons in acting (and even acting with the powerful and privileged amateurs on stage) became guests of refined and sophisticated salons; discussions between aristocrats and playwrights, who composed some of their plays specifically with the théâtres de société in mind or simply assisted in staging their plays privately, became more common as well. Contrary to popular belief, théâtres de société were not just empty entertainment; they had an influence on the hierarchical changes within the 18th century society.
Keywords:
18th century theatre, 18th century salon, French 18th century theatre, French theatre, 18th century societyReferences
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