Class struggle

Definition

Class struggle refers to the ongoing conflict between different social classes, primarily between the bourgeoisie (capitalist class) and the proletariat (working class), over economic, political, and social power. This concept is central to understanding societal change, as it highlights the tensions that arise due to inequality and exploitation within economic systems. In performance art, particularly in epic theatre, class struggle is often used as a lens to reveal social injustices and promote awareness among audiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Class struggle is a fundamental theme in Marxist theory, illustrating the conflict between those who control wealth and resources and those who do not.
2. In epic theatre, playwright Bertolt Brecht aimed to provoke critical thought about class struggle through techniques that encourage audience reflection rather than emotional engagement.
3. Brecht believed that understanding class struggle could lead to social change, empowering audiences to challenge societal norms and injustices.
4. Class struggle can manifest in various forms, including strikes, protests, and political movements aimed at addressing social inequality.
5. The portrayal of class struggle in performance often emphasizes the collective action of the working class against oppressive systems, aiming to inspire solidarity among viewers.

Review Questions

• How does Brecht use the concept of class struggle in his epic theatre to influence audience perception?
  • Brecht employs the concept of class struggle by creating theatrical experiences that challenge audiences to reflect critically on social inequalities rather than becoming emotionally absorbed in the narrative. His techniques, such as breaking the fourth wall and using didactic elements, force viewers to consider the economic and political contexts behind characters' actions. By highlighting class tensions on stage, Brecht aims to awaken a sense of social responsibility and encourage audiences to question their roles within these power dynamics.
• Discuss how class struggle can be seen as a driving force for social change in Brecht's works.
  • In Brecht's works, class struggle serves as a catalyst for social change by illustrating the consequences of exploitation and oppression faced by the working class. He emphasizes that collective action among the proletariat can disrupt the status quo and lead to transformation in society. By portraying characters who confront their oppressors, Brecht showcases the potential for revolutionary movements fueled by awareness of class struggles, inspiring audiences to consider their own power in effecting change.
• Evaluate the relevance of class struggle in contemporary society and how it connects with Brecht’s views on theatre as a tool for activism.
  • Class struggle remains highly relevant today as economic inequality continues to grow globally. Issues like labor rights, wealth distribution, and systemic oppression resonate strongly with Brecht’s advocacy for using theatre as a means of activism. By reflecting contemporary struggles on stage, artists can create parallels with Brecht's principles, encouraging audiences to engage with social issues critically. This connection illustrates how performance art can serve as both a mirror and a platform for promoting awareness and inspiring action against ongoing injustices related to class.

Related terms

Bourgeoisie: The capitalist class who owns the means of production and is typically associated with wealth and economic power.

Proletariat: The working class who sell their labor for wages and do not own the means of production.

Alienation: The feeling of disconnection that workers experience from their labor, the products they produce, and their own humanity due to exploitative economic systems.