Shakespeare's Predecessors in Drama: Their Influence and Enduring Relevance
William Shakespeare, one of the most celebrated authors in the English language, was not an isolated genius. He stood atop a rich legacy of English drama, informed by the works of various predecessors who shaped the landscape of theater in the decades leading up to his time. This article explores key figures and the types of drama they developed, highlighting some of the plays that continue to captivate audiences.
Christopher Marlowe (1564-1593)
Type of Drama: Marlowe is celebrated for his blank verse and the development of the tragic genre, which often delved into themes of ambition, power, and the human condition.
Notable Plays: One of his most famous works is Doctor Faustus. This tragedy tells the story of a scholar who strikes a pact with the devil, leading to a dramatic exploration of the corrupting power of knowledge. Another notable work, Tamburlaine, which follows the rise and fall of a conqueror, is another instance of Marlowe's exploration into the tragic genre.
Stage Presence: Both these plays continue to be occasionally performed and are widely studied for their poignant portrayal of human power struggles and ethical dilemmas.
Thomas Kyd (1558-1594)
Type of Drama: Kyd is credited with popularizing the revenge tragedy—a genre that often featured themes of vengeance, madness, and moral ambiguity.
Notable Plays: His foundational work, The Spanish Tragedy, is a cornerstone in the evolution of revenge tragedies. This play set the stage for the genre, exploring the psychological and ethical dimensions of revenge and moral ambiguity.
Stage Presence: Although less frequently staged, The Spanish Tragedy continues to be performed and adapted, often featured in academic curricula for its historical significance.
John Lyly (1553-1606)
Type of Drama: Lyly was a pioneer in romantic comedies and was instrumental in the widespread use of prose in English plays.
Notable Plays: Endymion is a prime example of his work, blending elements of fantasy and pastoral themes into a romantic comedy that remains a testament to his style.
Stage Presence: While not as frequently performed as some of the other plays discussed here, Lyly's works are still studied for their innovative contributions to the English theater.
Ben Jonson (1572-1637)
Type of Drama: Jonson is known for his comedies of humours and satirical plays, which often satirize society and human behavior.
Notable Plays: Volpone is a dark comedy based on greed and deception, while The Alchemist is a satirical take on conmen and gullibility. Both works skewer societal norms and human folly with sharp wit.
Stage Presence: Jonson's works, especially Volpone, continue to resonate in modern theater and are regarded as classics of English drama, often staged and appreciated for their timeless commentary.
The Morality Play Tradition
Type of Drama: Morality plays often feature allegorical characters representing moral qualities and focused on the struggle between good and evil.
Notable Examples: Everyman, a late medieval morality play, explores a man's journey to salvation, symbolizing the struggle between soul and spirit.
Stage Presence: Despite the age of these works, Everyman remains a popular choice for performance and adaptation, highlighting its enduring relevance.
Conclusion
These earliest playwrights contributed significantly to the development of English drama, influencing Shakespeare and providing a rich foundation of themes, styles, and structures. While some plays are less frequently staged today, many remain part of the theatrical repertoire and continue to resonate with contemporary audiences, offering timeless insights into the human condition and societal dynamics.