Rent debuted in 1996, but it has continued to be produced consistently since then. It started as a contemporary piece that addressed issues that had immediate relevance for the audience. Over time, it became a period piece, or a theatrical work that specifically reproduces a past era onstage. How does it function as a period piece? Which events, issues, or narrative moments remain relevant to an audience today? Which elements do you think haven’t aged well?

How would you describe the structure of the musical in comparison with common plot structure models (e.g., Aristotelian/Freytag, Cyclical, Episodic, etc.)? How does the passage of time function in the play, and why do you think it works that way?

Research the bohemian movement in Paris in the 19th century and the bohemian movement in the United States in the 20th century. How are they different or similar? In what ways do you see bohemian ideals enacted in the musical? Use specific examples from the text to support your answer.