Final answer:
A theatrical 'quart d'heure' is best defined as C) A short play or performance. It is a term used to describe a concise, yet complete theatrical work that distills dramatic impact into a shorter duration, as opposed to longer plays with multiple acts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The definition of a theatrical 'quart d'heure,' such as Strindberg's 'The Stronger,' is C) A short play or performance. In the context of theatre, a 'quart d'heure' may not literally refer to a fifteen-minute duration, but rather indicates a shorter form of theatre that distills its content and dramatic impact into a concise timeframe.
Plays can vary greatly in length and structure, often depending on the needs of the plot. Some works require only a short play to tell their story, while others might need multiple acts with intermissions. The term 'quart d'heure' aligns more with succinct pieces, similar to ten-minute plays, which are designed to deliver a powerful narrative punch without the extensive timeline of longer pieces like full-length plays.
A theatrical 'quart d'heure' differs from other categories like intermissions or musical compositions, as it focuses on delivering a complete albeit short theatrical experience. These condensed stories are critical in showcasing the essence and emotion of a play without the need for an extended runtime or elaborate staging, making them distinct features in the sphere of literary production.