The Renaissance Period (1500-1600) Study Notes

The Renaissance Period (1500-1600)

Introduction to the Renaissance Drama

  • The Renaissance period marked a significant evolution in drama, particularly in England from 1500 to 1600.
  • Two main influences on drama during this era included:
    • The Inns of Court, where performances were often held in honor of royalty and diplomats.
    • A shift towards more sophisticated and developed narrative styles compared to earlier English drama.

Early English Plays Inspired by Latin Models

  • Academic experimentation led to original plays written in English based on Latin forms.
  • Key plays:[
    • Ralph Roister Doister by Nicholas Udall (comedy)
    • Grummar Gurton's Needle by John Still (comedy)
    • Gorbuduc or Ferrex and Porrex by Thomas Sackville (tragedy)
  • Description of these plays:
    • Characterized by monotony and lack of significant literary merit.

The University Wits (Mid-Sixteenth Century)

  • The term refers to a group of educated writers who influenced Elizabethan drama.
  • Primary figures include Christopher Marlowe, Lyly, Greene, Peele, Lodge, and Nash, with Marlowe as the dominant figure.
John Lyly (1554-1606)
  • Notable Work: Euphues
  • Other Important Plays:
    • Compass of the World (1581)
    • Sappho and Phaon (1584)
    • Endymion (1591)
    • Midas (1592)
  • Characteristics of Lyly's Plays:
    • Mythological and pastoral themes; influenced closer to court spectacles rather than traditional narrative drama.
    • Written in a mix of prose and verse:
    • Prose often exaggerated, a feature of Euphuism.
George Peele (1558-1597?)
  • Associated with Marlowe, Greene, and Nash; attempted to make a career in literature.
  • Significant Works:
    • The Arraignment of Paris (1584)
    • Features elaborate praise for Queen Elizabeth; categorized as a court play.
    • David and Bathsheba (1599)
    • Renowned for its beautiful lines; notable for rich characterization.
  • Contribution to Drama:
    • Together with Marlowe, enriched the quality of blank verse in drama.
Thomas Kyd (1558-1595)
  • Best Known For: The Spanish Tragedy
  • Introduction of 'blood and thunder' themes, making drama more captivating.
  • Significance:
    • Regarded as breaking away from the lackluster nature of earlier works like Gorboduc.
Robert Greene (1560-1592)
  • Life Context:
    • Known for a tumultuous lifestyle, died impoverished.
  • Key Works:
    • Orlando Furioso
    • Friar Bacon and Friar Bungay
    • Alphonsus, King of Aragon
    • George a Greene
  • Noteworthy Contributions:
    • Friar Bacon and Friar Bungay is particularly engaging for its blend of magic and romance with comedic elements.
    • Famous for authentic character portrayals that reflect human conditions.

Christopher Marlowe (1564-1593)

  • Overview:
    • Regarded as the greatest among the University Wits.
    • His works significantly influenced the trajectory of English drama.
  • Major Works:
    • Tamburlaine (1587) – handled themes of ambition and power with emotional intensity.
    • The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus – thematic exploration of desire for knowledge and power the narrative follows Faustus who sells his soul for worldly gratification.
    • Famous lines evoking Faustus' despair: "O soul, be changed into little water-drops, and fall into the ocean, ne'er be found! Ugly hell, gape not! Come not, Lucifer! I'll burn my books!"
    • The Jew of Malta and Edward II also exemplify his contributions.
  • Legacy:
    • Marlowe elevated drama's thematic depth, introducing complex characters and dynamic plotlines.
    • Known as the "Father of English Dramatic Poetry" for his monumental contributions to verse and dramatic structure.

William Shakespeare (1564-1616)

  • Reign as the preeminent dramatist of the Elizabethan era:
    • Despite limited formal education, Shakespeare's works transcended those of his contemporaries.
  • Characteristics of His Plays:
    • Infused new life into existing narratives, revealing profound themes and emotions.
    • Elements of his style include a balance of dramatic action with lyrical beauty, rich character development, sensual imagery, and wit.
    • His mastery of different genres bridged comedy and tragedy, innovative character arc utilization, and poignant lyrical poetry within plays.
  • Cultural Impact:
    • Shakespeare's universal themes ensure his relevance beyond the Elizabethan age, creating an enduring legacy that continues to captivate audiences.

Ben Jonson (1573-1637)

  • A pivotal figure of the period, noted for his classical influence and contributions to English literature.

Conclusion

  • The Renaissance period was a transformative era for drama, characterized by the emergence of influential playwrights who laid the groundwork for modern narratives. With figures like Marlowe and Shakespeare at the forefront, the elevation of theatrical art and poetic expression profoundly shaped literary history, securing the legacy of this remarkable period.