moralités

Moralités were a type of dramatic allegory popular in late medieval Europe, particularly in England and France, from the 15th to the 16th centuries. These plays served as a form of moral instruction, aiming to teach the audience about Christian doctrine and virtuous living. Unlike earlier miracle plays or morality plays that focused on biblical stories or saints' lives, moralités featured allegorical characters representing abstract concepts.

The central character in a moralité was often Everyman, or a similar figure representing humanity, who was confronted with personified vices and virtues. These characters might include Death, Mercy, Knowledge, the Seven Deadly Sins, or spiritual advisors. The plot typically revolved around the protagonist's journey through life, facing temptations and the judgment of God. The ultimate goal was to guide the audience towards salvation by highlighting the consequences of sin and the rewards of righteousness.

Moralités were performed in public spaces, often by itinerant acting companies. They were characterized by their didactic purpose, often featuring lengthy speeches and straightforward narratives designed to convey a clear moral lesson. While the dramatic structure was relatively simple, the plays provided entertainment while reinforcing religious and ethical teachings. They represent an important transition in the development of European drama, bridging the gap between medieval religious theater and later Renaissance drama.