Ruy Blas

Ruy Blas is a play by Victor Hugo, a prominent figure in French Romantic literature. First performed in 1838, it exemplifies Hugo's theories on Romantic drama, which advocated for a blend of genres, mixing the sublime with the grotesque.12

The play combines poetry, comedy, and tragedy, creating strong antithetical effects that were central to Hugo's vision of modern drama. This approach aimed to reflect the complexities of human existence and appeal to a contemporary audience, moving away from the strict rules of Classical theater. Ruy Blas is considered a significant work within the context of French Romantic theater, contributing to the movement's battles against Classicism.12