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theses

The purpose of this work is to analyze characters and relationships in Goldoni’s comedies in terms of their social actions and interactions. I assert that Goldoni intended for these comedies to be a vehicle of instruction in order to model and reform behaviors he deemed either productive or wasteful to the progress of society. The success of society as a whole depends on the individual behaviors and conduct of its members. Goldoni recognized the denegration of morals and good sense among the various social classes. His plays, taken deeper than face value, demonstrate his desire to aid in the renovation of Venetian society and reinstate the honorable, virtuous and productive society that he perceived. Through social dynamics and familial relationships, various behaviors of the characters and their interactions demonstrate aspects of Venetian society that Goldoni lauded or criticized. Many Goldoni scholars such as Mario Baratto and Franco Fido have noted the social implications of Goldoni’s theater. I believe that my research takes a different direction and, through the socio-economic lens, it is possible to note the theory substantiating Goldoni’s intentions. The ideologies of Adam Smith, Emile Durkheim and Max Weber will aid in this analysis. These sociological and economic perspectives will shed new light on the characters and their relationships, both familial and societal, found throughout the comedies of Carlo Goldoni and to explain various trends in terms of sociological and economic theory. This examination highlights and analyzes the themes of productivity and waste in Goldoni’s works and his desire to provide a formula for change for the betterment of society.

ETD_5467

Ph.D.

Includes bibliographical references

by Jaclyn A. Bevacqua

doi:10.7282/T31R6NSF

ETD doctoral

The author owns the copyright to this work.