First Known Use: 1833
Dictionary
mise–en–scène
noun \ˌmē-ˌzäⁿ-ˈsen, -ˈsān\
plural mise–en–scènes \-ˈsen(z), -ˈsān(z)\
Definition of MISE-EN-SCÈNE
1
a : the arrangement of actors and scenery on a stage for a theatrical production b : stage setting
2
a : the physical setting of an action (as of a narrative or a motion picture) : context b : environment, milieu
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Origin of MISE-EN-SCÈNE
French mise en scène
Related to MISE-EN-SCÈNE
- Synonyms
- decor (or décor), mise-en-scène, scene, set
Synonym Discussion of MISE-EN-SCÈNE
background, setting, environment, milieu, mise-en-scène mean the place, time, and circumstances in which something occurs. background often refers to the circumstances or events that precede a phenomenon or development <the shocking decision was part of the background of the riots>. setting suggests looking at real-life situations in literary or dramatic terms <a militant reformer who was born into an unlikely social setting>. environment applies to all the external factors that have a formative influence on one's physical, mental, or moral development <the kind of environment that produces juvenile delinquents>. milieu applies especially to the physical and social surroundings of a person or group of persons <an intellectual milieu conducive to artistic experimentation>. mise-en-scène strongly suggests the use of properties to achieve a particular atmosphere or theatrical effect <a gothic thriller with a carefully crafted mise-en-scène>.
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