Restoring Behavior: Understanding Richard Schechner's Definition and Its Significance Richard Schechner\, a prominent figure in performance studies\, introduced the concept of "restored behavior" as a key element in his understanding of performance. It's not just about acting or simply replicating behavior\, but a complex process involving a dynamic interplay of elements that ultimately shapes the experience of the audience. This article will delve into Schechner's definition of restored behavior\, explore its significance within performance theory\, and discuss its broader implications for understanding human behavior and culture. Understanding the Basics: Defining "Restored Behavior" Schechner's concept of restored behavior is intricately tied to his broader theory of performance. He posits that performance is not simply a matter of imitation but a process of "restoring" behavior. This restoration involves recreating a behavior\, but not in a literal sense. It's more about evoking the essence of the behavior\, capturing its meaning and significance. Key Aspects of Restoring Behavior: Reconstruction: Restoring behavior involves reconstructing a behavior\, not simply replicating it. This process includes analyzing the original behavior\, identifying its key elements\, and then re-presenting them in a way that makes sense for the performance context. Transformation: The restoration process also involves transformation. The original behavior is not simply copied but transformed to fit the specific needs of the performance. This might involve changing the scale\, tempo\, or even the intention of the behavior. Meaning-Making: The act of restoring behavior is inherently tied to meaning-making. The audience does not simply witness a recreated behavior; they engage with it\, interpret it\, and ultimately extract meaning from it. The Role of the Performer and the Audience Schechner emphasizes the crucial role of both the performer and the audience in the process of restoring behavior. The performer is not simply a conduit for the behavior\, but an active agent who shapes and transforms it. They bring their own skills\, experience\, and understanding to the process\, creating a unique and dynamic presentation. The audience\, on the other hand\, is not just a passive observer. They actively engage with the performance\, drawing upon their own experiences and cultural knowledge to interpret the restored behavior. This active engagement ultimately shapes the meaning they derive from the performance. Applying Restoring Behavior in Different Performance Contexts Schechner's concept of restored behavior is highly relevant across various performance contexts. It can be applied to: Theatre: Actors restore characters' behaviors through their physical movements\, vocal expressions\, and emotional portrayals\, leading to a deeper understanding of the character and the play's narrative. Dance: Choreographers restore movement patterns\, drawing upon cultural traditions\, emotional states\, or even abstract concepts. The audience interprets these restored movements\, engaging with their aesthetic and expressive qualities. Ritual: Rituals are inherently about restoring behavior. Rituals\, like weddings\, funerals\, and religious ceremonies\, involve specific actions and gestures that have been repeatedly performed across generations. They are restored through the repetition of these actions\, reinforcing shared beliefs and traditions. Everyday Life: Even everyday interactions can be understood as restored behavior. When we greet someone\, offer a compliment\, or engage in social rituals\, we are restoring behavior patterns that have been established within our culture. Beyond Performance: Implications for Human Behavior and Culture Schechner's concept of restored behavior extends beyond performance studies\, providing a valuable framework for understanding human behavior and culture. It helps us understand how individuals and communities: Transmit Culture: Through the process of restoring behavior\, cultural practices\, values\, and beliefs are transmitted across generations. This process ensures the continuity of culture\, allowing it to evolve and adapt to changing circumstances. Create Meaning: By restoring behavior\, individuals and communities create meaning and shared understanding. They construct narratives\, negotiate social roles\, and express their collective identity through the performance of these behaviors. Shape Identity: The behaviors we restore and the way we perform them contribute to our individual and collective identities. They define our sense of self\, our social roles\, and our place within society. Conclusion: Restoring Behavior as a Powerful Tool for Understanding Performance and Beyond Richard Schechner's concept of restored behavior provides a powerful lens through which to understand performance and its impact on human experience. It goes beyond simple imitation\, highlighting the dynamic and transformative nature of behavior in performance contexts. Furthermore\, this concept has significant implications for understanding human behavior and cultural transmission\, demonstrating how we create meaning\, shape our identities\, and maintain the continuity of our shared cultural heritage. FAQ: Q: What is the difference between restored behavior and simply acting? A: While both involve mimicking or recreating behavior\, "restoring behavior" involves more than just acting. It entails a deeper level of understanding and transformation\, considering the cultural and historical context of the behavior and its deeper significance. Q: How can I use this concept to understand different cultures? A: By observing and analyzing the rituals\, customs\, and everyday interactions of a different culture\, you can gain insights into the behaviors they restore and their cultural meanings. This helps in understanding their values\, beliefs\, and social structures. Q: Can restoring behavior be used to create new performance forms? A: Absolutely. Artists and performers can use the principles of restoring behavior to create innovative and impactful performance experiences by transforming and reinterpreting existing behaviors in unique and meaningful ways. References: Schechner\, R. (1988). Performance Theory. Routledge. Schechner\, R. (2002). Performance Studies: An Introduction. Routledge. Schechner\, R. (2011). The Future of Ritual: Reflections on Performance and Human Behavior. Routledge.