"This collection of essays explores the changing connotations of "theatricality" for theatrical performance and everyday life. Six case studies, each written by a specialist in the field, use historically specific circumstances to illustrate how explanations of theatricality relate to political and cultural issues ranging from contemorary gender theory to Confucian philosophy, anti-theatrical prejudices, aesthetics of realism and politicized spectacle. This book establishes the terms of debates for theatricality's place within performance theory."--Jacket.