From Goldoni to Pirandello: Between Text and Stage

The course offers an overview of the history of Italian theatre and dramatic literature from the 18th to the 20th century, focusing on the key moments that, following the professionalization of acting with the Commedia dell’Arte, led to the establishment of modern theatre. Particular attention will be given to the emergence of the playwright and the director as central figures in theatrical production. Through the contributions of actors, playwrights, and directors active during the period under examination, we will explore the evolving dynamics between text and performance — between author, actor, and director — that have shaped Italian theatre history. Special emphasis will be placed on the theoretical and theatrical works of Carlo Goldoni (1707– 1793) and Luigi Pirandello (1867–1936), highlighting how power relations and interpretative tensions between script and stage have influenced theatrical practice.