In what Ways Did Melodrama as a Cultural Form Speak to the Concerns of American Theatre Goers During the Nineteenth Century?

In what ways did melodrama as a cultural form speak to the concerns of American theatregoers during the nineteenth century? Discuss Augustin Daly's sensational melodrama "Under The Gaslight" and the ways in which it negotiates the issues of class and ethnicity in nineteenth century New York.
This essay will look at melodrama in the nineteenth century. It will establish whether the issues of class and ethnicity were included in the melodramas performed in New York during this period. The essay will consider the different types of melodramas watched by different classes of society. …