The Theater and Its Double
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Book is in good condition and may include underlining highlighting and minimal wear. The book can also include "From the library of" labels. May not contain miscellaneous items to…
Book Summary
Antonin Artaud's 'The Theater and Its Double' is a foundational text of modern theater theory. This used copy in good condition offers Artaud's radical call for a 'theater of cruelty' that rejects psychological realism in favor of visceral, ritualistic experience. Essential for students and practitioners of drama, performance studies, and avant-garde art.
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About The Theater and Its Double
First published in 1938, 'The Theater and Its Double' collects Antonin Artaud's manifestos and essays arguing for a theater that abolishes the separation between audience and stage. Artaud rejects the Western literary tradition in favor of a physical, non-verbal 'theater of cruelty' that assaults the senses and reveals hidden truths. He draws on Balinese dance, plague imagery, and alchemical metaphors to propose a total spectacle where gesture, light, and sound replace dialogue. This edition, in good condition with possible minimal wear and markings, remains a vital source for understanding avant-garde performance, surrealism, and the roots of contemporary immersive and experimental theater. Its influence extends to artists like Peter Brook, Jerzy Grotowski, and countless others.
Who should read The Theater and Its Double?
This book is essential for theater students, directors, actors, and performance artists seeking to challenge conventional dramatic forms. It suits readers interested in avant-garde movements, surrealism, and the philosophy of art. Scholars of French literature and cultural history will value its radical ideas. Anyone curious about the origins of immersive and ritualistic theater will find it provocative. The used copy is accessible for those on a budget, though readers should expect possible annotations from previous owners.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Groundbreaking theoretical text that reshaped modern theater
- ✓ Concise and passionate essays that are intellectually stimulating
- ✓ Influential on major directors and performance movements
- ✓ Affordable used copy in good condition
- ✓ Provides insight into Artaud's visionary and controversial ideas
Cons
- ✗ Artaud's writing can be dense and aphoristic, requiring careful reading
- ✗ Some concepts are abstract and may frustrate practical theater makers
- ✗ Used copy may contain underlining or highlighting not noted in detail
- ✗ Lacks contemporary critical introduction or notes in this edition
- ✗ Not a practical guide; readers seeking exercises will be disappointed
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Frequently asked questions
Is this book a play or a theoretical work?
It is a collection of theoretical essays and manifestos, not a play. It outlines Artaud's philosophy of theater.
What condition is this used copy in?
The description states it is in good condition and may include underlining, highlighting, and minimal wear, as well as possible 'From the library of' labels.
Does this edition include any supplementary material?
This edition is a standard text and does not appear to include additional commentary or introductions beyond Artaud's original work.
Is this book suitable for beginners in theater studies?
Yes, but it is challenging. It is often assigned in introductory theater theory courses, though readers may benefit from a guide or instructor support.
What is the 'theater of cruelty'?
It is Artaud's concept of a theater that is visceral, ritualistic, and non-verbal, designed to shock the audience into confronting deeper truths, rather than relying on psychological realism.
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