PASTORAL PLAY Meaning and
Definition
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A pastoral play is a genre of theatrical work that originated during the Renaissance period. It typically features a rural or natural setting, portraying the simple and idyllic lives of shepherds and shepherdesses. The term "pastoral" itself refers to the countryside or rural environment, and is often associated with themes of love, innocence, and the harmonious relationship between humans and nature.
A pastoral play usually revolves around a love story, typically between two young and virtuous shepherds. It may also include various elements such as songs, dances, and comedic interludes. Characters in pastoral plays often embody idealized qualities, such as purity, honesty, and loyalty. The play often explores themes of courtly love, the pursuit of beauty, and the conflict between the artificial and the natural.
In a pastoral play, the setting is often represented as a peaceful and serene landscape, providing a contrast to the bustling and corrupt nature of urban life. It serves as a backdrop for the characters' romantic escapades and their exploration of universal human emotions, such as desire, jealousy, and unrequited love.
Prominent examples of pastoral plays include William Shakespeare's "As You Like It," John Milton's "Comus," and Christopher Marlowe's "The Shepherd's Calendar." These works not only entertain and amuse audiences with their light-hearted and romantic plots, but also serve as a reminder of the beauty of the natural world and the importance of living in harmony with it.
Common Misspellings for PASTORAL PLAY
- oastoral play
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- pasyoral play
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Etymology of PASTORAL PLAY
The word "pastoral", meaning rural or pertaining to a simple, idyllic countryside life, derives from the Latin word "pastor", which means shepherd. The term "pastoral play" refers to a specific genre of drama that typically involves characters such as shepherds and shepherdesses and portrays the peaceful, harmonious life of rural communities. The combination of "pastoral" and "play" suggests a dramatic performance centered around pastoral themes and settings.
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