French Literature Reviews - 2026

Théodore de Banville and the Theatre
Theatre and Performance

Théodore de Banville et le théâtre

Martine Kahane

SOMOGY, 2007

Publisher's blurb:

Born in Moulins, a Parnassian poet admired by his peers, a music and theatre critic, journalist, novelist, author of short stories and precious memoirs, Théodore de Banville (1823-1891) was a master craftsman of the French language, whether in verse or prose.
A passionate theatre enthusiast and playwright, his most famous play is Gringoire. Alongside Théophile Gautier, he pioneered the revival of the commedia dell'arte and became a champion of the modern Pierrot—brought to life by the mime Deburau on the Boulevard du Crime. Deeply attuned to the world of the circus, Banville was also one of the first writers to sketch the self-portrait of the artist as a clown.

Théodore de Banville occupied a distinctive place in nineteenth-century French literature, balancing his identity as a celebrated Parnassian poet with an enduring devotion to the dramatic arts. Alongside his peers, such as Théophile Gautier, he participated in the revival of the commedia dell'arte tradition and championed the figure of the modern Pierrot popularized by the mime Deburau. His engagement with the stage encompassed work as a playwright, notably with Gringoire, as well as extensive activity as a theatre and music critic for the Parisian press. Readers interested in nineteenth-century French drama, theatrical criticism and the Parnassian movement may find this volume a relevant exploration of Banville's multifaceted career.