Aristotle's 'Poetics', Bharatamuni's 'Natyasastra', and Zeami's treatises:Theory as discourse

Scholars have often pursued comparative studies of major traditions of thea trical theory (Greek, Sanskrit, and no), and the theories themselves are of ten used as windows on vanished modes of performance. This article, however , considers the theoretical treatises as discourses that advance claims abo ut the status of theatre and establish value through the creation of standa rds for achievement. The author situates treatises on the art of theatre in the context of philosophical debate (Greek), religious and ethical writing (Sanskrit), and courtly aesthetics(Japanese) and examines the question of d iscursive communities and those to whom theatrical theory is addressed.