Final answer:
The emergence of the director as a creative figure in the 19th-century theatre scene paralleled the move towards realism and a more cohesive approach to production, exemplified by figures like Georg II, and Duke of Saxe Meiningen.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Rise of the Theatre Director in the 19th Century
The emergence of the director as a separate creative figure in the theatre during the nineteenth century coincided with a revolutionary change in theatrical production and the birth of modern theatre. One of the pioneers of this change was Georg II, Duke of Saxe Meiningen, who is often considered the first modern director due to his detailed and cohesive approach to the entire theatrical production, pushing towards more naturalistic performances and historically accurate sets and costumes. The professional director became a key player in theatre amidst the broader socio-cultural shifts of the time. These changes were propelled by significant figures such as Charles Darwin, Karl Marx, and Sigmund Freud, whose ideas were influencing society's view of the human condition, leading theatre to reflect these new insights. The director's role was further emphasized by the decline of the repertory system and the rise of the star system, as well as the influence of other art forms like ballet and opera.
By the end of the 19th Century, the director had become an essential part of the theatre, responsible for unifying the myriad elements of production into a single artistic vision. This new emphasis on direction coincided with the shift towards realism in theatre, which sought to accurately represent and critique contemporary society. The changing nature of theatre and the growing complexity of productions necessitated someone to oversee and bind together the various components of a play, from the performance to the scenic design, ensuring that every aspect aligned with the intended vision. Innovators like Georg II and the broader movement toward realism firmly established the role of the director in professional theatre.