"Theatre and Its Double" (book)

"Theatre and Its Double" by Antonin Artaud is a collection of essays exploring the nature of theater and its potential to evoke profound emotional and spiritual experiences. Artaud argues that traditional theater often relies on realism and superficial storytelling, which can limit its transformative power. Instead, he champions a concept called the "Theatre of Cruelty," emphasizing visceral, sensory-driven performances that awaken the audience's subconscious and challenge societal norms. The book advocates for a radically expressive, experimental approach to theater that seeks to connect deeply with human instinct and emotion, aiming to regenerate both the art form and society.