Licensing Act of 1737

Definition

The Licensing Act of 1737 was a significant piece of legislation in England that required all plays to be licensed by the Lord Chamberlain before they could be performed. This act aimed to regulate the content of theatrical performances, ensuring that no plays could challenge the authority of the government or the church. The act marked a turning point in the relationship between theater and politics, impacting the development of both Restoration and Sentimental Comedy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Licensing Act of 1737 was introduced by Prime Minister Robert Walpole as a means to control political dissent and protect moral standards in theater.
2. The act restricted plays to just two official theaters in London: Drury Lane and Covent Garden, which limited the scope and diversity of theatrical productions.
3. Following the enactment of the Licensing Act, many playwrights resorted to satire and indirect criticism as a way to bypass censorship while still addressing contemporary issues.
4. The Licensing Act contributed to a shift in theatrical trends, leading to the rise of Sentimental Comedy as playwrights sought to create more socially acceptable works.
5. The act remained in force until it was repealed in 1968, demonstrating its long-lasting impact on British theater and censorship.

Review Questions

• How did the Licensing Act of 1737 affect the content and themes of theatrical productions during its enforcement?
  • The Licensing Act of 1737 significantly altered theatrical content by imposing strict censorship on plays. Playwrights had to seek approval from the Lord Chamberlain for their works, leading them to avoid controversial subjects that might challenge government authority or moral standards. This regulation resulted in a tendency towards satire and indirect criticism, as playwrights creatively navigated the restrictions while still addressing important social issues.
• Discuss how the Licensing Act influenced the transition from Restoration Comedy to Sentimental Comedy in early 18th-century England.
  • The Licensing Act's restrictions on theatrical content pushed playwrights to adapt their work to comply with censorship laws. As a result, there was a gradual evolution from Restoration Comedy, known for its sharp wit and social critique, to Sentimental Comedy, which emphasized emotional appeal and moral lessons. This shift reflected a changing audience preference towards more wholesome entertainment that conveyed virtuous ideals rather than mocking societal norms.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of the Licensing Act of 1737 on British theater and its evolution over subsequent centuries.
  • The long-term implications of the Licensing Act of 1737 were profound, shaping not only the nature of theatrical production but also influencing broader cultural shifts. By restricting artistic expression for over two centuries, it stifled innovation during critical periods such as Romanticism and Modernism. Eventually, as society's attitudes towards censorship evolved, the repeal of the act in 1968 marked a significant turning point that allowed for greater creative freedom in British theater, enabling diverse voices and themes to emerge without governmental interference.

Related terms

Lord Chamberlain: An official in the British royal household responsible for overseeing the royal household, which included licensing theatrical productions under the Licensing Act of 1737.

Restoration Comedy: A genre of English comedy that emerged after the Restoration of Charles II in 1660, characterized by its witty dialogue, complex plots, and often satirical treatment of social issues.

Sentimental Comedy: A genre that developed in response to Restoration Comedy, focusing on evoking emotions and moral lessons, often featuring middle-class characters and emphasizing virtue over vice.