Translation guide
A medieval allegorical drama in which personified virtues and vices struggle for a human soul. In Japanese, the term is usually explained rather than translated directly.
Referring to the historical dramatic form
The standard Japanese term for 'morality play', literally 'morality drama'. Used in academic and theatrical contexts.
『エブリマン』は有名な道徳劇です。
'Everyman' is a famous morality play.
Literally 'allegorical drama'. Emphasizes the allegorical nature of the plays. Less common than 道徳劇.
In casual conversation, you may need to explain the concept: 'a medieval play where virtues and vices are personified'.
道徳劇っていうのは、善と悪を擬人化した中世の劇のことです。
A morality play is a medieval drama that personifies good and evil.
If your listener is unfamiliar with the term, you can say: 「善悪を擬人化した教訓劇のことです」(It's a didactic drama that personifies good and evil).
中世の寓意劇はキリスト教の教えを広めるために上演されました。
Medieval morality plays were performed to spread Christian teachings.