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Humanist scholars began recovering Greek and Roman works, sparking a revival of interest in non-religious themes, character-focused storytelling, and classical dramatic forms in Renaissance theatre. (Brockett Hildy 97). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Petrarch Manuscript -
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The printing press enabled wide access to Roman comedies like Plautus’, deeply influencing the work of Renaissance playwrights and shaping the preferences of their audiences. (Wilson Goldfarb 128). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Plautus Works -
Serlio’s treatise introduced standardized perspective scenery and raked stages, influencing stage design throughout Europe (Wilson Goldfarb 135). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Serlio’s Theater Designs -
James Burbage constructed England’s first public playhouse. It’s success transformed theatrical performance into both a thriving business and a significant cultural institution. (Brockett Hildy 142). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – The Theatre -
This Italian form of improv theatre used masked stock characters and physical comedy, influencing acting and comedy across Europe (Wilson Goldfarb 150). -
Designed by Palladio and completed by Scamozzi, the Olimpico featured a fully enclosed theatre with permanent perspective scenery—radically advancing stage design (Brockett Hildy 120). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Teatro Olimpico Interior -
The printing of scripts (e.g., Marlowe, Shakespeare) expanded the reach of theatre texts and elevated their literary value (Wilson Goldfarb 128). Image source: Folger Library – First Folio -
Shakespeare’s company opened the Globe, renowned for its thrust stage and legendary productions, it became the centerpiece of Elizabethan theatre.(Brockett Hildy 145). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Globe Theatre -
Granted royal patronage by James I, Shakespeare’s troupe gained prestige and funding, marking official support of professional theatre (Wilson Goldfarb 153). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – King James I -
The world’s first public opera house, San Cassiano introduced opera to a paying audience, combining theatre and music in a new commercial form (Wilson Goldfarb 160). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Teatro San Cassiano