The Burgtheater. Changes of Artistic Direction 1848–1918
Initial Addresses, Farewell Speeches and Necrologies.
In accordance with the definition of culture as the dynamic ensemble of signs, symbols, and codes which enables individuals and groups to communicate with each other within a social context, the initial addresses, farewell speeches and necrologies of the "Burgtheater"-directors may be considered as primary sources. Verbal elements, symbols and codes which function as generators of collective identity in a wider cultural significance are analyzed. These elements were actualized by commemoration, translated into new contexts and so formed identifiers and offered patterns of orientation. They compose the multifarious narrative that is known as the "Myth of the Burgtheater".
Lead Researcher: Elisabeth Großegger
Funding: ÖAW
Photo: © IKT/Stefan Csáky