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"Brechtian" refers to the works and teachings of Bertolt Brecht. In contrast to the desire of many dramatists to create an emotionally involving illusion of reality, Brecht's "epic theater" aims to prevent the audience from empathizing with the characters as individuals. This alienation effect (German Verfremdungseffekt) allows the audience to reflect critically and intellectually on the themes and problems of the play. In Brechtian theater, actors may address the audience directly and out of character and play multiple roles, making it impossible for the audience to forget that they are actors.
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