The Dichotomy of Ugliness and Beauty and Their Effects on Developing Children's Theatrical Characters

Abstract

This study explores the duality of ugliness and beauty in theatrical texts intended for children, aiming to examine how these concepts are portrayed and their impact on children's understanding. The study begins by collecting a selected set of theatrical texts, including both classical and contemporary works, with a focus on the target age group and production quality. The texts are analyzed using a descriptive-analytical approach, examining characters, plots, and symbols associated with ugliness and beauty.

Subsequently, theatrical performances are observed, and notes are taken on how these dualities are represented on stage, with an evaluation of acting, direction, and artistic design. Interviews or surveys are conducted with children who attended the performances to understand their impact, helping to analyze their reactions to the characters and events.

The study gathers data from texts, performances, and interviews, analyzing them to identify patterns and trends. Ultimately, it provides recommendations for authors and directors on how to present ugliness and beauty in a way that fosters a positive understanding among children, contributing to the development of their perceptions of these elements in a healthy and constructive manner.

The results showed that beauty has a significant positive psychological impact on children, enhancing their sense of comfort and happiness and contributing to the development of self-esteem and self-confidence. When children are exposed to manifestations of beauty, whether in nature or the arts, they feel joy and gain a greater ability to face challenges. In contrast, ugliness, whether physical or moral, can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression, negatively impacting their mental health. This emotional variability helps children learn how to cope with the positives and negatives in their lives.