MODULE 4

Renaissance

1. Means 'rebirth'; a cultural revival in Europe emphasizing classical arts and learning.

2. A period of significant advancements in painting, sculpture, astronomy, writing and printing

Historical Significance of the Renaisaance

• Italians sought to distance themselves from the ‘Dark Ages’

Renaissance Theatre Development in Italy

• movements such as Commedia Dell’Arte in Italy

Commedia Dell’Arte

Improvisational theatre characterized by stock characters and masks, prominent during the Renaissance in Italy.

Renaissance Theatre Development in England

-Elizabethan Period

-Flourish under Queen Elizabeth (1558-1603)

-Inspired by national pride, internation expansion, and naval triumph

-Produced literary and artistic achievements, including poetry, music and drama.

Historical Context of the Elizabethan Period

• Henry VIII (1532-1533) His divorce from Catherine of Aragon led to the establishment of the Protestant Church in 1535.

• Religious unrest: Period of civil controversy and Puritan rule

• Rise of mercantile power challenged the aristocracy

• Crown’s control of public assembly extended to theatrical; performances

• 1548; Abolition of Feast of Corpus Christi and Cycle Plays

Act of Vagabonds (1572)

Established permanent theatre companies under noble patronage in Elizabethan England.

Master of the Revels

The government censor responsible for licensing plays in Elizabethan England. Ensuring they were not seditious or irreligious

The Lord Chamberlain’s Men

A prominent theatre company in Elizabethan England, associated with actor Richard Burbage.

The Lord Admiral’s Men

• A prominent theatre company in Elizabethan England, associated with actor Philip Henslowe

Elizabethan Playhouse

• Spectators entered through a single door and paid varying fees

• 1 penny: admission to stand in the yard (the pit)

• Additional pennies; seats in the galleries or cushions

• The best seats: The Lords’ Room near the stage.

Stage Features in the Elizabethan Playhouse

1. Areas for ‘'heaven’ and ‘hell’

2. Trap doors and a ‘discovery room’

3. Musician’s gallery and a hut for special effects

Trap doors in theatre

Stage features used for special effects, allowing characters to enter or exit in dramatic fashion.

Puritan opposition

Strong resistance against playhouses and entertainment due to beliefs that they were morally corrupt.

William Shakespeare

An iconic playwright born in 1564, known for his influential works during the Elizabethan theatre era.

Early life of William Shakespeare (1564-1616)

• Born in Stratford

• Married Anne Hathaway

• His father was a glover whoo crafted leather goods

William Shakespeare Career

• First recognized in London in 1952, referred to as an ‘upstart crow’ by rival Robert Greene

• Worked with prominent theatre companies such as The Lord Chamberlain’s Men

Foul Papers

The original writings of William Shakespeare before they were transcribed or finalized for publication.

Fair Copy

Transcription by a scribe

Book of the Play

Final version used by the theatre company, including production details