Brecht's "Verfremdungseffekt"

Brecht's "Verfremdungseffekt," or "alienation effect," is a theatrical technique designed to prevent the audience from becoming too emotionally absorbed in a story. Instead of losing themselves in the narrative, viewers are encouraged to remain critically aware of the play's social and political messages. This is achieved through various means, such as breaking the fourth wall, using bold set designs, and showing characters' motivations explicitly. By fostering this sense of detachment, Brecht aimed to inspire audiences to reflect on real-world issues and think critically about society, rather than simply enjoying an escapist entertainment experience.