Theatre

• What factor led to increased patronage in the arts?

  The rise of the gentry
• How did the Renaissance influence England?

  It encouraged creativity and innovation
• What was the impact of the defeat of the Spanish Armada on art and literature?

  It boosted national pride
• What were the years of the establishment of professional theatre companies in England?

  • Theatre: 1576
  • Globe: 1599
• Who could attend performances in professional theatres?

  All classes of society
• What was the significance of the growth of professional theatre companies?

  It contributed to the golden age of theatre
• Who are two important figures in English theatre?

  William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe
• What genre saw a significant increase during this period?

  Secular dramatics
• What was the social composition of audiences at London theatres?

  Included people from all social classes
• Why were some theatrical experiences not appreciated by all?

  They were geographically limited
• What type of theatre continued in smaller towns and villages?

  Street theatre and entertainments
• How did the quality of street theatre compare to that in London?

  It was rarely of the same quality
• What limited access to certain theatrical experiences for many in England?

  History plays and political satires
• What was the religious opposition to theatre in 1590?

  Propaganda against the evils of London
• What types of people were associated with the negative propaganda of London?

  Vagrants, thieves, and idle persons
• What societal issues were highlighted by the religious opposition to theatre?

  Concerns about masterless men and danger