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3. The Growth of American Drama: Seventeenth, Eighteenth, and Nineteenth Centuries

The growth of American drama throughout the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries reflects the evolving socio-cultural landscape of the United States and the development of a distinct American theatrical tradition. While American drama during these periods was influenced by European theatrical styles, it gradually began to incorporate uniquely American themes, characters, and perspectives.

Seventeenth Century: In the seventeenth century, American drama was in its nascent stages, primarily influenced by English theater. The first recorded play performed in America was “Ye Bare and Ye Cubb” (1665), a comedic interlude by Lewis Hallam’s company. Colonial theaters were modest and often makeshift, reflecting the scarcity of resources and the conservative Puritan values that viewed theater with suspicion.

Eighteenth Century: The eighteenth century saw a slow growth in American theater. The emergence of professional theater companies, such as the American Company in Philadelphia, marked a significant step forward. However, American drama still heavily relied on adaptations of European plays. The “tragedy of manners” style was popular, focusing on morality and social class.

The first American play with notable originality was Royall Tyler’s “The Contrast” (1787). This play juxtaposed American and British characters, highlighting American virtues like simplicity and sincerity. While still borrowing from British theatrical conventions, “The Contrast” laid the foundation for the inclusion of distinctly American elements in drama.

Nineteenth Century: The nineteenth century marked a turning point in the growth of American drama. As the United States gained independence and underwent social and cultural changes, drama became a platform for exploring national identity, social issues, and individualism.

Melodrama gained popularity during this period, with themes of virtue, morality, and sensationalism taking center stage. Playwrights like Dion Boucicault wrote melodramas that addressed societal concerns while providing dramatic entertainment. As America experienced westward expansion and industrialization, themes of progress, morality, and rugged individualism were woven into dramatic narratives.

The early to mid-nineteenth century also saw the rise of American domestic drama, which focused on the struggles of ordinary people. Augustin Daly’s “Under the Gaslight” (1867) is an example, highlighting urban life and class differences. Moreover, the minstrel show, although problematic due to its racial stereotypes, contributed to the development of American theatrical forms.

As the century progressed, realism gained traction. Playwrights like Henrik Ibsen influenced American dramatists, leading to the emergence of the “well-made play.” In Eugene O’Neill’s work, such as “Long Day’s Journey Into Night” (1941), realism was combined with psychological depth to explore family dynamics and inner conflicts.

In conclusion, the growth of American drama during the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries evolved from initial European influences to the incorporation of distinct American themes and perspectives. Despite early challenges and conservative attitudes, American drama gradually developed its own voice, reflecting the changing social and cultural landscape. The nineteenth century, in particular, witnessed the emergence of uniquely American themes and styles that continue to influence theater to this day.