In Old Kentucky: A Study of American Melodrama

Abstract

This project, a graduate research thesis, means to unearth Charles T. Dazey’s most famous work, In Old Kentucky. This thesis examines the facets of In Old Kentucky which made it a perennial favorite across the entirety of the United States for more than thirty years from 1892, well into the twentieth century. This thesis shines a light on the life and work of Charles T. Dazey, discusses melodrama as it existed before In Old Kentucky, and evaluates In Old Kentucky as dramatic literature. Through an examination of In Old Kentucky and its history one can understand the theatrical trends, audience preferences, and cultural ideals of the time period.