L'allégorie en discordepersonnifications antagoniques au Théâtre de la Foire

Abstract

This study approaches the dissensions put on stage by the allegorical characters in the 'Théâtre de la Foire' mainly from a theme-based perspective. In turn, within this perspective, a traditional-origin trend is interwoven with a contemporary-origin one. On the one hand, we can find the adaptation of the moral and social controversies which feeds on the sources of classical and medieval literature. Thus, the 'opéra comique' stages the opposition between vice and virtue, either by means of some allegories from Latin poetry, or by using distinctive techniques of the 'moralités' and the 'débats' from the Middle Ages. On the other hand, we can point out the personifications of a contemporary kind, such as the conflicts of 18thcentury customs or fashions, and those which confront the 'Foire' genre with the rest of Parisian scenes (the French Comedy, the Italian Comedy and the Opera).