The purpose of this paper is to show that the English dramatic grotesque is linked inextricably with the medieval stage upon which it originated and that the contemporary Theatre of the Absurd, as it has been called, has at its base a philosophy distinctly medieval which initially gave rise to that dramatic grotesque. This thesis presupposes three essential points of examination. First, the term "English dramatic grotesque" must be completely understood. This task shall be accomplished by a look at the etymology of the term through analysis of its historical background and by definition. Next, the origins of the English dramatic grotesque in medieval culture will be revealed. Finally, correlations between the medieval stage and the Theatre of the Absurd will be drawn, thereby completing the most important observation made in the thesis. While much has been written about the grotesque and the literature of the grotesque, surprisingly few authors have concerned themselves with the various manifestations of the grotesque when presented upon the stage. Because of this, chapter two, though perhaps not concerned directly with the paper's thesis, is, however, a valuable touchstone of meditation upon the subject of the grotesque in drama. May it, as well as the rest of the paper, serve to stimulate thought and further investigation into the topics raised. But most importantly, may it serve to stimulate imagination which after all is the precursor of all aesthetic endeavors.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:BSU/oai:cardinalscholar.bsu.edu:handle/182394 |
| Date | January 1981 |
| Creators | Grove, Dana Anthony |
| Contributors | Hozeski, Bruce W. |
| Source Sets | Ball State University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Format | iv, 80 leaves ; 28 cm. |
| Source | Virtual Press |
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