Member-only story

Against Modern Plays: Christopher Shinn's Polemic on the State of Contemporary Theater

Ervin Bell

·4.8k Followers· Follow

Published in Against (Modern Plays) Christopher Shinn

5 min read

94 View Claps

14 Respond

Save

Listen

In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary theater, the boundaries of what constitutes a "play" have become increasingly blurred. With the rise of experimental and avant-garde forms, traditional notions of structure, narrative, and realism have come under scrutiny. The question of whether modern plays have abandoned their fundamental purpose for mere spectacle and intellectual posturing has ignited a heated debate.

At the forefront of this debate stands Christopher Shinn, the acclaimed American playwright whose provocative essay, "Against Modern Plays," has sparked a fierce dialogue within the theater community. Published in 2014, Shinn's polemic decries the state of contemporary theater, arguing that it has lost touch with its essential function: to entertain, provoke thought, and provide catharsis.

Against (Modern Plays)

by Christopher Shinn

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	969 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	111 pages

In this critical examination, we will delve into the arguments put forth by Shinn in "Against Modern Plays." We will analyze his critique of modern theater's obsession with form over substance, its lack of emotional resonance, and its alienation of audiences. Furthermore, we will explore counterarguments and perspectives from those who defend modern playwriting as a necessary evolution of the art form.

Against Modern Plays: Shinn's Argument

Shinn's essay opens with a scathing indictment of contemporary theater: "The state of modern theater is one of crisis." He argues that modern playwrights have become preoccupied with "faddish experimentation" and "intellectual games" at the expense of creating meaningful and accessible works. According to Shinn, these plays often lack a coherent narrative, relatable characters, and a sense of dramatic tension.

Furthermore, Shinn criticizes modern theater for its excessive focus on theory and abstraction. He contends that plays have become more like academic dissertations than theatrical experiences, with their convoluted language and晦涩的references alienating audiences. In his view, theater should be accessible to all, not just an elite few who possess a particular level of education or cultural capital.

Finally, Shinn argues that modern plays have lost sight of the fundamental purpose of theater: to provide entertainment and catharsis. He believes that modern playwrights have become so consumed with innovation and self-indulgence that they have forgotten the essential ingredients of a good play: a compelling story, well-developed characters, and a sense of emotional connection.

Counterarguments and Perspectives

Shinn's essay has generated a wide range of responses, both supportive and critical. Defenders of modern theater argue that Shinn's critique is too narrow and fails to appreciate the diversity and vitality of contemporary playwriting. They argue that the experimentation and innovation that Shinn criticizes are crucial for the evolution of the art form.

These proponents contend that modern plays challenge audiences to think critically about the world around them and to explore new perspectives and experiences. They argue that theater should not be limited to providing mere entertainment but should also provoke discomfort, challenge assumptions, and ultimately expand our understanding of the human condition.

Moreover, some argue that Shinn's focus on accessibility and audience appeal is elitist and dismissive of the value of challenging and experimental work. They argue that theater should not be designed solely to please the masses but should also cater to the needs of a discerning minority who appreciate the complexities and innovations of modern playwriting.

A Balanced Perspective: The Merits of Both Sides

While Shinn's critique of modern theater raises valid concerns, it is important to recognize the merits of both traditional and avant-garde approaches to playwriting. There is a place for both accessible, crowd-pleasing works and challenging, thought-provoking plays that push the boundaries of the form.

The key lies in finding a balance between innovation and accessibility. Playwrights should strive to create works that engage audiences on both an intellectual and emotional level, offering both entertainment and insight. Theater should be a place where we can escape into other worlds, confront our own experiences, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the human condition.

Ultimately, the success of a play depends not solely on its adherence to traditional forms or its embrace of modern experimentation, but on its ability to connect with audiences and leave a lasting impact. The best plays, whether they fall into the category of traditional or modern, possess the power to move us, challenge us, and inspire us to think more deeply about the world around us.

Christopher Shinn's "Against Modern Plays" has reignited a crucial debate about the future of theater. While his critique raises legitimate concerns about the state of contemporary playwriting, it is important to recognize the validity and importance of both traditional and avant-garde approaches to the art form.

The key to a vibrant and engaging theater landscape lies in finding a balance between accessibility and innovation, between entertainment and provocation. By embracing the strengths of both traditional and modern playwriting, we can ensure that theater remains a vital and relevant force in our society, capable of entertaining, challenging, and inspiring audiences for generations to come.

Against (Modern Plays)

by Christopher Shinn

4.2 out of 5