Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

period-piece

noun

/ˈpɪə.riəd piːs/

Definition

A period-piece is a work of art, literature, or performance that is set in a specific historical time period, accurately reflecting the cultural and social context of that era.

Examples

Movies: ‘Pride and Prejudice’ is a well-known period-piece film that transports viewers to early 19th century England.
Literature: Many novels, such as ‘The Great Gatsby’, can be considered period-pieces that depict the social dynamics of the 1920s.
Theater: Shakespeare’s plays are often staged as period pieces that reflect the customs of Elizabethan England.

Meaning

The term ‘period-piece’ typically refers to movies, plays, or literature that recreate a particular historical setting, often paying close attention to historical accuracy in costumes, language, and scenery.