The theater of the war period 1939–45 in the light of tasks and values

Abstract

The publication describes the activity of Polish theater during the Second World War. It is an attempt to look at theater from the perspective of the tasks and values it presented in this particularly difficult period. The article describes the functioning of open and underground theaters and theaters operating in concentration camps. The above-mentioned activities cannot be reduced to one formula or a specific species. In these conditions, the artistic level and innovation of many performances amaze. Paradoxically, this most dramatic theater achieved its greatest autonomy during the occupation. It has become a useful tool for restoring human dignity and art.