Théâtre et christianisme

Book Description

At the intersection of faith and performance lies a fascinating centuries-long dialogue that has shaped French cultural expression in profound ways. Charles Mazouer presents a comprehensive exploration of how Christianity and theater have engaged in an intricate dance of harmony and conflict throughout French literary history.

Drawing from decades of scholarly research, this extensive study traces the evolving relationship between religious belief and dramatic art from medieval times to the modern era. The journey begins with liturgical dramas and mystery plays of the Middle Ages, examining how these sacred performances served both spiritual and artistic purposes while experiencing remarkable revivals even into the twentieth century.

The narrative continues through Renaissance theater, where biblical figures took center stage in tragedies that explored theological questions from both Catholic and Reformed perspectives. Mazouer illuminates how dramatists of this era balanced educational missions with artistic expression, creating works that remained connected to medieval traditions while addressing contemporary religious debates.

The classical period reveals particularly compelling tensions, as theater sought Christian legitimacy despite fierce opposition from rigorous religious circles. The author examines how the Church's resistance to comedy created obstacles for playwrights like Molière, who nevertheless brought pressing religious questions to theatrical life.

The study concludes with twentieth-century voices including Péguy, Claudel, and Mauriac, showing how peace between Churches and theater emerged alongside radical transformations in dramatic art. This scholarly work offers readers insight into how spiritual themes have continuously shaped artistic expression across centuries of cultural evolution.