Topic VI: Shakespeare's Theatre

i. In what sort of building were Shakespeare’s plays performed?

Shakespeare’s plays were performed in two different kinds of theatre buildings. They are termed public and private theatres.

Public theatres were much larger than privates one and could hold about 2500 people. Such theatres were built around a courtyard which had no roof in order for there to be light. Therefore, plays in public theatre were only performed during the day.

Private theatres were smaller in size and were roofed. Candlelight was used for night performances. Such theatres charged higher prices and aimed to attract the rich and the nobles

ii. How did the physical constraints of the theatre affect the language of Shakespeare’s plays?

Since the theatres were rather small and did not have curtains, there was thus no scenery at the back as a result. Therefore, the actors had to describe the scenery in the play itself.

iii. What sort of people acted in plays? What sort of people went to see them?

Only males acted in plays since women were banned from the stage. Therefore, the females were played by prepubescent boys since their voice are still as high pitched as females.

People of all walks of life went to see the plays. However, only the rich and the nobles could afford to watch in the private theatre.

iv. How was ‘the theatre’ viewed by society?

Actors were viewed as rogues and scoundrels by the rich and the nobles, although they were often seen in the theatres. The peasants, on the other hand, clamoured to watch actors perform in the plays. Moreover, actors were frequently invited to perform in courts, though there were some disapproval.

References:
http://tonyaanna.tripod.com/id5.html/
http://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/merchant/themes.html/ http://www.slideshare.net/johnyap11/shakespeares-theatre/