Mummers' plays

Definition

Mummers' plays are a type of folk drama traditionally performed by groups of actors, known as mummers, often during festivals or holidays. These performances usually feature a mix of comedy, music, and often a battle between good and evil, highlighting themes of death and resurrection. As a precursor to later forms of secular drama, mummers' plays played a significant role in the emergence of interludes, which blended theatrical performance with entertainment during the late medieval period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mummers' plays are believed to have origins in medieval religious performances but evolved to become more secular in nature over time.
2. The performances often featured stock characters like the hero, the villain, and a doctor, with each character representing various archetypes.
3. Traditionally, mummers would perform door-to-door in their local communities, engaging with the audience directly and creating an interactive experience.
4. These plays often coincided with seasonal celebrations, such as Christmas or Easter, linking them closely with local customs and rituals.
5. Mummers' plays influenced the development of English theatre by paving the way for more structured forms of drama and interludes that emerged in later centuries.

Review Questions

• How did mummers' plays contribute to the transition from religious to secular drama in early English theatre?
  • Mummers' plays marked a significant shift from strictly religious performances to more secular forms of entertainment. Initially rooted in religious themes, these folk dramas began incorporating comedic elements and everyday scenarios that resonated with local audiences. This evolution allowed for greater artistic freedom and set the stage for interludes and other theatrical forms that focused on human experiences rather than solely on religious narratives.
• Discuss the role of characters in mummers' plays and how they reflect broader societal themes.
  • Characters in mummers' plays typically included archetypal figures such as heroes, villains, and comedic doctors, each representing various societal roles and conflicts. These characters allowed audiences to engage with themes like good versus evil and life’s struggles in a humorous way. By portraying familiar societal issues through exaggerated characters, mummers' plays not only entertained but also offered commentary on contemporary life and morality.
• Evaluate the impact of mummers' plays on the development of English theatre and its cultural significance during their peak performance period.
  • Mummers' plays significantly impacted the evolution of English theatre by introducing elements of improvisation and community engagement that became essential in later dramatic forms. Their ability to blend comedy with critical themes allowed them to appeal to a broad audience while reflecting cultural norms and values. The cultural significance of these performances lies in their connection to local traditions and festivities, serving as a bridge between communal identity and emerging theatrical practices that would shape future English drama.

Related terms

Interlude: A short play or performance that often included comedic elements and was performed between larger theatrical works or as standalone pieces during festivals.

Folk Drama: A form of community-based theatrical performance rooted in local traditions, often involving themes from folklore and regional history.

Masque: A form of festive courtly entertainment that combined music, dance, and dramatic elements, popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, often with elaborate costumes and allegorical themes.