Published in the mid-1700s, Justus Möser's Die Tugend auf der Schaubühne is a fascinating piece of cultural criticism. Forget dry philosophy—this is a direct, passionate appeal from a thinker who truly cared about the soul of his community.

The Story

There isn't a traditional plot with characters. Instead, Möser builds a compelling case. He argues that the theater stage ('Schaubühne') isn't just a place for amusement. He sees it as the most powerful classroom for virtue ('Tugend') that a society has. Through vivid examples and clear reasoning, he claims that watching virtuous actions portrayed on stage can directly inspire those same qualities in the audience. He champions plays that show heroism, honesty, and civic duty, and criticizes those that settle for empty farce or vice. The 'conflict' is between theater as mere diversion and theater as an essential tool for building a better public.

Why You Should Read It

What grabbed me was how modern Möser's concerns feel. We still argue today about whether movies, TV, and video games influence behavior. Möser doesn't just say 'yes'—he lays out a hopeful blueprint for how that influence can be positive. He believes in the audience's ability to recognize and emulate goodness. Reading him is refreshing because he has such high expectations for both artists and the public. It makes you think about the stories we consume and what they're really teaching us.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for anyone who loves theater history, ethical debates, or the simple power of a good story. It's a must-read for playwrights, screenwriters, and critics. While it's an 18th-century text, its core question—what is entertainment for?—is timeless. If you enjoy seeing where ideas come from and don't mind a text that argues a point instead of telling a tale, you'll find Möser surprisingly direct and thought-provoking.