What are the Main Features of Elizabethan Drama?
History of English Literature is a notable literary work by ___. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of History of English Literature.
Answer
Trace the characteristics of English literature during the Elizabethan period. [NU. 2018]
Or, what do you know about Renaissance drama? [NU. 2016]
Or, discuss the influence of the Renaissance on English literature. [NU. 2020]
Or, what are the main features of the Elizabethan or the Renaissance Age?
Or, what are the main features of Elizabethan or Renaissance Drama?
Or, write an essay on the theatre and growth of drama during the Elizabethan age.
Or, what do you understand by Renaissance? Discuss its impact on the Elizabethan Drama.
The Elizabethan Age (1558–1603) is called the golden age of English literature. This iconic period is full of brilliant drama, poetry, and prose. Shakespeare, Marlowe, Bacon, and Spenser created timeless works in the Elizabethan age. This age is named after Queen Elizabeth I, who encouraged art, culture, and learning in England during her reign. The most prominent features of this age are the revival of Classical learning, humanism, exploration, and Discovery.
Revival of Classical Learning: The Renaissance is a time when people look back to the ideas and arts of ancient Greece and Rome. This revival of classical learning brings new ideas about life, art, and science. Christopher Marlowe and William Shakespeare are inspired by classical models. These models include five-act structures, complex plots, well-defined characters, etc.
Humanism: Humanism is one of the central ideas of the Renaissance. It emphasizes the importance of human beings and their achievements. The medieval period focuses on religion and the afterlife. However, in the Elizabethan Age, humanism focuses on human ambition and achievements. This can be seen in Marlowe’s works. He writes about complex characters with deep emotions and ambitions. In “Doctor Faustus,” he writes about Faustus’ flaw (his ambition to learn magic),
“A sound magician is a mighty God.”
The Flourishing of Literature: The Elizabethan period saw the flourishing of literature in many forms, including drama, poetry, and prose. Writers explored human nature, philosophy, and knowledge. This makes literature both entertaining and educational. Shakespeare and Marlowe dominate drama. Edmund SpenserUnlock this study guide now