Theory/Theatre
An Introduction
📘 About This Book
Theory/Theatre is a unique and highly engaging introduction to literary theory as it relates to theatre and performance. It is a brilliantly clear and readable examination of current theoretical approaches, from semiotics and poststructuralism, through cultural materialism, postcolonial studies and feminist theory. In this, the third and fully revised edition of this now classic text, Mark Fortier particularly expands and updates the sections on: queer theory postmarxist theory technology and virtuality post-colonialism and race Also including completely new writing on cognitive science, fast becoming a cornerstone of theatre and performance theory, this revised edition is an indispensable addition to every theatre student’s collection.
📖 Summary
Mark Fortier's Theory/Theatre stands as a uniquely engaging and brilliant introduction to how literary theory intersects with the worlds of theatre and performance. Spanning 259 pages, this classic text bridges the gap between abstract philosophical concepts and practical theatrical art, making complex academic frameworks accessible without oversimplifying them. Throughout the book, Fortier guides readers through a comprehensive examination of contemporary theoretical approaches, demonstrating how these lenses shape our understanding, creation, and interpretation of dramatic works. The text covers foundational ideas like semiotics and poststructuralism while diving deep into cultural materialism, feminist theory, and postcolonial studies, offering readers a robust toolkit for analyzing performance. In its third and fully revised 2016 edition, the book has been significantly updated to reflect the evolving landscape of modern performance studies. Fortier expands vital sections to address contemporary critical movements, including queer theory, postmarxist theory, technology and virtuality, and the intersection of post-colonialism and race. Furthermore, the revised edition introduces completely new writing on cognitive science, an emergent field that is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of modern theatre and performance theory. By bringing these modern developments into conversation with traditional performance criticism, the book ensures that students and scholars remain at the forefront of the discipline. Ultimately, Theory/Theatre acts as a bridge between the page and the stage. It encourages readers to question the underlying assumptions of dramatic texts and live performances alike, prompting a deeper appreciation of the social, political, and cultural forces at play. Whether examining the signs and symbols of a semiotic analysis or pondering the impact of digital technology and virtuality on live acting, Fortier provides a clear, highly readable map of the theoretical terrain. It is an essential companion for anyone seeking to understand the deep intellectual currents running beneath the surface of contemporary drama and performance art.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Brilliantly clear and readable examination of complex theories
Thoroughly updated with modern topics like cognitive science and virtuality
Bridges the gap between literary theory and practical theatre
Essential and indispensable addition to a theatre student collection
⚠️ Cons
Can be dense in places due to the inherent complexity of literary theory
Focuses heavily on academic frameworks which may require prior basic knowledge
❓ FAQ
Who wrote Theory/Theatre? +
The book was written by Mark Fortier.
What edition of the book is covered here? +
This overview covers the third and fully revised edition published in 2016.
How many pages is the book? +
The book is 259 pages long.
What new topics are included in the revised edition? +
The revised edition includes expanded sections on queer theory, postmarxist theory, technology and virtuality, post-colonialism and race, alongside entirely new writing on cognitive science.
Is the book difficult to read for beginners? +
No, it is praised as a brilliantly clear and readable examination designed to introduce complex theories in an engaging way.
