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The Theatre: Target of Religious Condemnation in Nineteenth Century America

Corey Hayes

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Published in Church And Stage: The Theatre As Target Of Religious Condemnation In Nineteenth Century America

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In the bustling cities and towns of 19th century America, the theatre emerged as a vibrant and alluring form of entertainment. Its stages showcased captivating performances, from comedies that elicited laughter to tragedies that stirred profound emotions. However, beneath the glimmering façade of footlights and applause, the theatre faced a formidable adversary: religious condemnation.

Church and Stage: The Theatre as Target of Religious Condemnation in Nineteenth Century America

by Claudia Durst Johnson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	222 pages
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Pulpit Thunder and Moral Outrage

America's religious landscape was dominated by evangelical Protestantism, whose adherents believed in the strict adherence to biblical principles. Many of these devout individuals viewed the theatre with a mixture of apprehension and disdain, denouncing it as a den of vice and corruption.

From their pulpits, fiery preachers thundered against the evils of the stage. They condemned actors and actresses as immoral and depraved, and accused theatregoers of indulging in sinful pastimes. One sermon, delivered by the influential Reverend Lyman Beecher, proclaimed that "the theatre is the school of vice, the nursery of profligacy, and the hot-bed of pollution."

Legislative Battles and Censorship

The pulpit thunder did not remain confined to the walls of churches. Religious leaders sought to translate their moral crusade into political action, urging lawmakers to pass legislation that would restrict or even ban theatrical performances.

In cities like Boston, Philadelphia, and New York, ordinances were enacted that imposed fines and imprisonment upon those who dared to put on or attend plays. These laws were often vague and open to interpretation, giving local authorities broad powers to suppress any performance they deemed objectionable.

The theatre community fought back against these attempts at censorship. They argued that freedom of expression was a fundamental right guaranteed by the Constitution, and that the theatre served a valuable role in society by providing entertainment, promoting cultural exchange, and stimulating critical thinking.

Social Reform and Shifting Values

The conflict between the theatre and religious groups was not merely a battle of opposing ideas. It reflected deeper social and cultural tensions that were shaping 19th century America.

Industrialization and urbanization brought profound changes to American society. Traditional values and moral codes were challenged by new lifestyles and ideologies. The theatre, with its portrayal of unconventional characters and exploration of controversial themes, became a lightning rod for the anxieties and fears of a society in transition.

The Decline of Religious Opposition

As the 19th century progressed, religious condemnation of the theatre gradually diminished. Several factors contributed to this decline:

Secularization: The rise of scientific rationalism and secular ideologies weakened the influence of traditional religious beliefs.

Urbanization: The growth of cities created a more diverse and cosmopolitan population, which was less receptive to religious dogma.

Professionalization of Theatre: The establishment of professional theatre companies and the of more sophisticated and artistic productions led to a greater respect for the art of the theatre.

By the end of the century, the theatre had become firmly established as a legitimate form of entertainment and cultural expression in American society.

Legacy and Significance

The conflict between the theatre and religious condemnation in 19th century America left a lasting legacy on both the theatre itself and American society as a whole.

The theatre emerged from this era as a more mature and respected art form, capable of tackling complex themes and challenging societal norms.

The struggle for freedom of expression and artistic freedom continues to shape the American cultural landscape today. The lessons learned from the religious condemnation of the theatre serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting these fundamental rights.

'The Theatre As Target Of Religious Condemnation In Nineteenth Century America' is a fascinating exploration of this pivotal chapter in American history, providing insights into the complex interplay between religion, culture, and social change.

Church and Stage: The Theatre as Target of Religious Condemnation in Nineteenth Century America

by Claudia Durst Johnson

5 out of 5