Abstract EN:

In the critical writings on theater produced in seventeenth century France, the definition of the social and political functions of theater constantly prefaces the description of the theatrical means through which these ends could be met. Theater is thus defined first and foremost through its social and political instrumentality. This study investigates the origins and historical significance of such a conception of theater. It first underlines that Cardinal Richelieu's encouragement of the production of theoretical writings on theater, but also his efforts to produce a new court theater and his attempt to create new regulations concerning the legal status of professional comedians can all be undestood as endeavors to achieve a political rationalization of the practice of theater. This study then proceeds to examine if and how the different functions then assigned to theater where effectively achieved. . .