Final answer:
During the Ming Dynasty, theatrical traditions were influenced by Confucian principles which shaped the themes and values presented in plays. Under the Qing rule, there was a return to traditional Confucian values and censorship of works considered morally suspect. Theatrical forms across Asia, including Chinese Opera, continued to evolve with distinct cultural aesthetics.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the Ming Dynasty, theatrical tradition underwent significant changes due to societal and political influences. As with the visual arts, under the Ming, the theater and dramatic performances were influenced by Confucian principles, which often guided the themes and moral messages of the plays. However, the transition to the Qing Dynasty saw a revival of traditional Confucian values, and morally suspect plays and novels were banned, as the Qing rulers Kangxi, Yongzheng, and Qianlong sought to correct what they believed were lax moral standards of the Ming period that had led to its downfall. The Ming Dynasty fostered diverse cultural developments, and in the realm of theater, novel forms and practices were cultivated. However, with the rise of the Qing Dynasty, there was a concerted effort to return to orthodox Confucian teachings as outlined by Zhu Xi, leading to a tightening of the creative expression seen in theatrical arts. Meanwhile, across Asia, dramatic arts evolved significantly, with Chinese Opera and other regional forms taking shape, each with its specific set of conventions reflecting cultural values.