Henri Becque's contributions to theater have sparked significant critical discourse, reflecting his role in shaping modern realism. As a playwright whose career was deeply influenced by his petit bourgeois background, Becque crafted works that portrayed characters disillusioned with their societal roles. These themes are particularly evident in The Vultures, a play initially met with resistance but eventually celebrated for its unflinching depiction of societal decay and bourgeois greed. This work is pivotal in understanding Becque's impact on realism, as explored in The Vultures: Becque's Realistic Comedy of Manners.

Despite some critiques from his contemporaries, who occasionally found his characterizations lacking depth, Becque's dramatic exploration of social relations marked a significant shift in French theater. His works, although initially unpopular, later gained recognition, particularly within innovative venues like the Theatre Libre. This support underscored Becque's pivotal role in advancing French drama, as detailed in Henri Becque and the Theatre Libre. Furthermore, discussions in The Stage of Henri Becque highlight how his blunt style set new dramatic precedents.

Though his later years were marked by poverty and obscurity, and his plays are seldom performed today, Henri Becque's incisive portrayal of societal and familial dynamics has secured his place in literary history. His works' enduring relevance is analyzed in critical essays such as Henry Becque: The Mordant Virtuoso and Henry Becque. Becque remains a seminal figure in the evolution of modernist theater, embodying the transition from traditional forms to a more realistic and biting portrayal of human experiences.