Pre-modern Drama

P C. Sadgrove

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Traditional forms of popular drama continued to exist well after the growth of European dramatic activities in the Arab world and were to provide some inspiration to the emergent modern Arab theatre. The shadow player frequently used a stand, like the European marionette theatre, with a screen stretched across and illuminated from behind by an oil-lamp or candles. Karākūz was composed of short comic dialogues, dances and set-piece scenes, depicting centuries-old stories, historical events, legends and fictional tales. The Egyptians were often amused by players of low and ridiculous farces, called muhabbazūn, who presented a short comic scene, a primitive kind of commedia dell'arte. The Maghrib countries had their own traditional forms of drama, among which were the ḥalqa, bisā and fattāla. Masked performances were to be seen in Muḥarram and during other religious feasts. Popular bands of female dancers, ghawāzī, were a familiar entertainment in Egyptian villages.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe Cambridge History of Arabic Literature
Subtitle of host publicationArabic Literature in the Post-Classical Period
EditorsRoger Allen, D. S. Richards
Place of PublicationCambridge
PublisherCambridge University Press
Pages369-384
Number of pages16
Volume3
ISBN (Electronic)9781139053990
ISBN (Print)9780521771603
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2006

Publication series

NameThe Cambridge History of Arabic Literature
PublisherCambridge University Press

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