The Concept of Traditional Aesthetics in Theatre

Abstract

The article elaborates the concept of traditional aesthetics in theatre. Traditional aesthetics in theatre constitute foundational systems through which performance communicates cultural values, philosophical ideas, and collective memory. This article examines the concept of traditional aesthetics in theatre by analyzing its theoretical origins, defining characteristics, and continued relevance in contemporary performance practice. Using a qualitative, literature-based methodology, the study draws on classical aesthetic treatises such as Aristotle’s Poetics and Bharata Muni’s Natyashastra, alongside modern performance scholarship, to explore how traditional theatrical forms structure meaning. The analysis reveals that traditional aesthetics are characterized by codified performance techniques, symbolic and non-realist representation, ritual and mythic foundations, and an integrated relationship between text, movement, music, and space. These elements establish a shared aesthetic language between performers and audiences, enabling theatre to function as a culturally embedded and reflective practice rather than a mere imitation of everyday reality. The discussion further demonstrates that traditional aesthetics continue to inform contemporary theatre through preservation, adaptation, and intercultural experimentation, offering alternative models of creativity grounded in discipline and embodiment. The study concludes that traditional aesthetics remain a vital framework for understanding theatre as an artistic, cultural, and philosophical phenomenon in both historical and modern contexts.