Medieval Roles for Modern Times

Medieval Roles for Modern Times Volume 1 examines the intersection of theater and political ideology across Europe and America during eras of war and revolution. This history and criticism work analyzes how creators utilized medieval culture and theatrical role-playing to navigate the ideological struggles of the modern world. The text focuses on the Th&éophiliens, a Parisian youth group active in the 1930s and 1940s that included figures like Roland Barthes and Alain Resnais.

The narrative highlights the roles of Gustave Cohen and Moussa Abadi within the performing arts. While Cohen sought exile in America, Abadi used his theater skills to lead a Jewish resistance network under the Vichy regime. By teaching refugee children role-playing techniques to evade the Gestapo, Abadi saved hundreds of lives. This volume provides a detailed account of how drama served as a tool for survival and political expression.