Theatre of the Oppressed—Augusto Boal
© 1974 © 1979 English Translation
Translation by Charles A. & Maria-Odilia Leal McBride
Section One, Part One, Reaction
Augusto Boal presents the Aristotelian structure connecting the arts and politics in a manner that is clear and thorough. He offers the basics of the distinctive qualities of the arts and builds the explanation of Aristotle’s philosophy that assists in following along. Because Boal’s position is one of theater and its place in our society, he offers examples from timeless dramatic stories to support the understanding of his reader.
This first section of Boal’s work is written in sub-sections, allowing Aristotle’s points to be considered on their own merits. Each sub-section builds on the one before it, leading the reader carefully through what might otherwise be intimidating material. I found this form accessible for me as I have never really studied philosophy. I am in agreement with what I have read.
I do find that as Boal presents the human condition according to Aristotle, there are many parallels to what is currently in our society. These are not limited to theatre. When Boal describes happiness and virtue, I cannot help but think that many people in our community have yet to move away from material happiness—what Aristotle felt was not even deserving of being studied through tragedy (theatre). It causes me to feel somewhat dejected, because humankind does not seem to have progressed much since the days of Ancient Greece.
What I do find somewhat tentative about my position is that I agree with the majority of this philosophy. I question whether or not I am limiting myself to Boal’s work which is based on Western philosophic interpretations of theater. Is there perhaps some Asian or African “Boal” who may offer another perspective on theater? If so, will that work support and confirm what my fundamental beliefs are about theatre or will I be given another perspective that may leave me with more questions?
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