The Psychological Realism in Antony Tudor's Jardin Aux Lilas (The Lilac Garden)

Abstract

Psychological realism is a narrative genre that emphasizes interior characterization and motivation to explore and probe the characters' spiritual, emotional, and mental lives. Antony Tudor, ballet dancer and choreographer, established and developed the psychological ballet. His masterpiece, Jardin aux Lilas, demonstrates his mastery of conveying profound, psychologically delicate emotions through ballet vocabulary and movements. Jardin aux Lilas is a romantic story that explores the conventions of marriage during the Victorian era through the story of Caroline, who is drawn to marry a man of fortune whom she does not love. Among the wedding ceremony guests are her lover and her fiancé's former mistress. Tudor's choreography is lyrical and dramatic and brilliantly captures the characters' moods and emotions. The ballet reflects the development of the psychological complex of the principal character, Caroline. As she steals moments of encounters with her lover, her movements are light and agile, portraying her joy and carefree mood. Her movements become more introspective, heavy, and somber as she realizes the inevitable separation from her lover and leaves in the arms of her betrothed. In conclusion, Jardin Aux Lilas is a complex and multifaceted ballet that offers a glimpse into the human psyche. It is a testament to the power of art to communicate complex ideas and emotions.