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1300
The Rise of Humanism (14th-16th centuries)
Humanism marked a shift away from medieval scholasticism and emphasized the study of classical antiquity. This intellectual movement encouraged playwrights to explore themes of human experience, individuality, and the complexities of human nature, which became essential to Renaissance theatre. Work Cited:
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1500
The Development of Perspective Scenery (Early 1500s)
Introduced by Italian artists like Filippo Brunelleschi, the use of linear perspective in stage design created the illusion of depth, transforming flat backdrops into three-dimensional scenes. This innovation allowed for more realistic and visually compelling stage settings, enhancing the overall theatrical experience. Work Cited:
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1500
The Introduction of Proscenium Arch Stages (16th Century)
The proscenium Arch, first used in Italian theatres like the Teatro Olimpico in Vicenza, framed the stage and separated the audience from the performance space. This architectural feature allowed for more elaborate scenery and special effects, contributing to the evolution of stagecraft. Work Cited:
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1500
The Reformation of Religious Drama (16th Century)
The Protestant Reformation led to the suppression of Catholic religious plays, known as mystery and morality plays, which had been popular throughout the Middle Ages. This decline paved the way for the rise of secular drama, allowing playwrights to explore a wider range of themes and subjects in their works. Work Cited:
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1550
The Creation of Commedia dell'Arte (1550)
Originating in Italy, Commedia dell'Arte was characterized by its use of improvisation, masked characters, and humorous scenarios. Troupes of actors traveled across Europe, performing in public squares and influencing comedic elements in theatre with their stock characters like Harlequin, Pantalone, and Colombina. Work Cited:
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1564
William Shakespeare's Influence (1564-1616)
Shakespeare's body of work, including 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and two long narrative poems, revolutionized English literature. His exploration of complex characters, intricate plots, and universal themes such as love, power, jealousy, and betrayal set a new standard for dramatic writing and deeply influenced subsequent generations of playwrights. Work Cited:
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The Construction of the Globe Theatre (1599)
Built by Shakespeare's playing company, The Lord Chamberlain's Men, The Globe Theatre in London became an iconic venue for Elizabethan drama. It was an open-air amphitheater with a thrust stage, allowing for a close interaction between actors and the audience. The Globe hosted many of Shakespeare's premieres, including "Hamlet", "Othello", and "King Lear". Work Cited:
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The Establishment of the French Academy (1635)
Founded by Cardinal Richelieu, the French Academy aimed to standardize the French language and literature. It played a crucial role in promoting the classical unities of time, place, and action in French drama, influencing playwrights like Pierre Corneille and Jean Racine. Work Cited:
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The Spanish Golden Age of Theatre (1580-1680)
This period saw a flourishing of dramatic literature in Spain, with playwrights like Lope de Vega, who wrote over 1,800 plays, and Pedro Calderon de la Barca, known for his philosophical dramas like "Life is a Dream." Spanish theatre of this era was characterized by its vibrant plots, dynamic characters, and exploration of themes such as honor, love, and destiny. Work Cited:
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The Licensing Act of 1737
This British law, enacted during the reign of King George ll, required all plays to be approved by the Lord Chamberlain before being performed. The act aimed to censor politically sensitive material and regulate public entertainment, significantly impacting the content and production of theatrical works. Work Cited:
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