Romanticism and Theatrical Experience: Kean, Hazlitt and Keats in the Age of Theatrical News

This book explores Romantic-period writing in Britain by recovering theatrical criticism from newspapers and periodicals, offering new contexts for the work of Edmund Kean, William Hazlitt, and John Keats. It demonstrates the significance of theater to early nineteenth-century Londoners and the importance of theater's textual legacies for our understanding of Romanticism.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 294 pages
\n Publication date: 10 June 2021
\n Publisher: Cambridge University Press
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This book is a groundbreaking exploration of Romantic-period writing in Britain, bringing together studies in theater history, print culture, and literature. By recovering a wide range of theatrical criticism from newspapers and periodicals, some of which have been overlooked since their original publication in Regency London, Jonathan Mulrooney offers fresh perspectives on the work of renowned figures such as Edmund Kean, William Hazlitt, and John Keats. Kean's enduring presence in the theatrical news challenged traditional notions of personal subjectivity and reshaped the British theatrical tradition. Hazlitt and Keats, in turn, reimagined the roles of the essayist and poet within theatrical contexts, redefining Romantic prose and poetics. Together, these case studies demonstrate the profound significance of theater to early nineteenth-century Londoners and the enduring importance of theater's textual legacies for our understanding of Romanticism as a historical and cultural phenomenon.

Edmund Kean, the legendary actor of the Romantic era, left an indelible mark on British theater through his exceptional performances and captivating presence. Mulrooney's meticulous research uncovers a wealth of theatrical criticism from newspapers and periodicals, shedding light on previously overlooked works. One such example is his analysis of Kean's performance in Richard III, which challenged traditional notions of kingship and morality. Through his portrayal of the titular character, Kean explored the complexities of human nature and the blurred lines between good and evil, leaving audiences spellbound.

William Hazlitt, another prominent essayist of the period, also found inspiration in the theater. Mulrooney explores how Hazlitt's theatrical experiences influenced his writing, particularly his essays on drama and theater criticism. Hazlitt's insights into the art of acting and the power of the stage helped him develop a unique perspective on literature and culture. His essays, such as "On the Drama," are considered classics of literary criticism, offering valuable insights into the Romantic era's artistic and intellectual landscape.

John Keats, the visionary poet, also left his mark on Romantic-period writing. Mulrooney delves into Keats's theatrical connections, highlighting his involvement in amateur dramatics and his close relationships with actors and theater managers. Keats's poetry was deeply influenced by his experiences on the stage, and his works often depicted the emotional turmoil and longing of the Romantic soul. Mulrooney's study provides a fresh perspective on Keats's poetry, exploring how his theatrical experiences shaped his artistic vision.

In addition to these individual case studies, Mulrooney also examines the broader theatrical landscape of early nineteenth-century London. He explores how theater influenced public opinion, shaped cultural values, and contributed to the development of the British literary canon. The book provides a rich tapestry of information, shedding light on the complex interplay between theater, literature, and culture in the Romantic era.

Overall, "The Theater and Romanticism in Britain" is a seminal work that offers a fresh and comprehensive perspective on Romantic-period writing in Britain. Through his meticulous research and insightful analysis, Jonathan Mulrooney has breathed new life into the work of these influential figures and demonstrated the enduring significance of theater in shaping the cultural and intellectual landscape of the Romantic era.

\n Weight: 426g\n
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 19 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781316635179\n \n