Expressive Effect of Victorian Costumes in Period Drama

Abstract

This study analyzed the expression effect of the crinoline-style female costume, which was popular in the Victorian Age based on the Delong theory, through the drama The Empress. Theatrical research was conducted through a documentary survey of advanced domestic and foreign studies. Next, this study used the over-the-top (OTT) drama The Empress as a research tool for visual media. The analysis of the expression effect based on the Delong theory showed that the Elizabethan costume in the drama was seen as the expression of excitement, calmness, strength, and delicacy, most of which were in agreement with the Delong expression effect. The effect of excitement was expressed more, compared to delicacy. Hence, it was concluded that the characteristics and role of the main character of Elizabeth were expressed well through the costume. The result of this study could be used as basic data for the research of period dramas of the 19th century as well as for the design and manufacture of drama or stage costumes for dramas depicting the Crinoline style of costumes.