MODULE 4
Study Guide: Renaissance and Elizabethan Theatre
Overview of the Renaissance (1400-1600)
1. Meaning and Context
- The term Renaissance means "rebirth," derived from the Italian word renascere.
- Marked a cultural revival in Europe, emphasizing classical arts and learning.
- A period of significant advancements in painting, sculpture, astronomy, writing, and printing.
2. Historical Significance
- Italians sought to distance themselves from the "Dark Ages."
- Renaissance ideas spread northward, influencing other regions.
3. Key Contributions to Theatre
- Theatre movements emerged, such as Commedia Dell’Arte in Italy.
- Theatre began to reflect the transition from medieval traditions to modern forms.
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Renaissance Theatre Development:
Italy
- Commedia Dell’Arte: Improvisational theatre characterized by stock characters and masks.
- Theatre showcased overlapping trends: classical influences, medieval remnants, and innovative dramatic forms.
England
- Known as the Elizabethan Period, flourishing under Queen Elizabeth I (1558-1603).
- Inspired by national pride, international expansion, and naval triumph.
- Produced significant literary and artistic achievements, including poetry, music, and drama.
Key Historical Context
Political and Religious Turmoil
- Henry VIII (1532-1533): His divorce from Catherine of Aragon and excommunication led to the establishment of the Protestant Church in 1535.
- Religious Unrest: Period of civil controversy and Puritan rule.
Changes in Society
- Rise of mercantile power challenged the aristocracy.
- Crown’s control of public assembly extended to theatrical performances.
- 1548: Abolition of the Feast of Corpus Christi and cycle plays.
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Theatre in Elizabethan England
Key Developments
- Act of Vagabonds (1572): Established permanent theatre companies under noble patronage.
- Master of the Revels: Government censor for licensing plays, ensuring they were not seditious or irreligious.
- Shareholding System:
- Shareholders financed productions and took profits.
- Responsible for all aspects of theatre operations, from hiring actors to managing legal matters.
Prominent Theatre Companies
- The Lord Chamberlain’s Men (Richard Burbage) and The Lord Admiral’s Men (Philip Henslowe).
- Competed for audiences and patronage.
The 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.
- Social stratification evident in seating arrangements.
Stage Features
- Minimalist design with symbolic elements:
- Areas for "heaven" and "hell."
- Trap doors and a "discovery room."
- Musicians’ gallery and a "hut" for special effects.
Opposition
- Puritans strongly opposed playhouses and entertainment, seeing them as morally corrupt.
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William Shakespeare (1564-1616)
Early Life of William Shakespeare:
- Born in Stratford-upon-Avon on April 23, 1564.
- Married Anne Hathaway at 18 years old (she was eight years older).
- His father was a glover who crafted leather goods.
Career of William Shakespeare:
- First recognized in London in 1592; referred to as an "upstart crow" by rival Robert Greene.
- Worked with prominent theatre companies, including The Lord Chamberlain’s Men.
William Shakespeare’s Legacy in Theatre:
- Shakespeare’s plays were preserved through various texts:
- Foul Papers: His original writings.
- Fair Copy: Transcriptions by a scribe.
- Book of the Play: Final version used by the theatre company, including production details.
- Playwrights relinquished rights to their plays after selling them to theatre companies.
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