The Reopening of Theaters in 1660

Definition

The reopening of theaters in 1660 marked the return of public performances in England after a period of Puritan rule that had closed them down for nearly 18 years. This pivotal moment reinstated theatrical culture and facilitated the emergence of new genres and styles, transforming the landscape of English drama. The reopening symbolized a broader cultural revival during the Restoration period, reflecting changing societal attitudes toward art, entertainment, and public life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The theaters were closed in 1642 due to Puritan opposition, which viewed theatrical performances as immoral and sinful.
2. The reopening was authorized by King Charles II, who returned to England in 1660, bringing a new cultural openness with him.
3. Two main theaters were established during this time: the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and the Dorset Garden Theatre, both becoming prominent venues for Restoration drama.
4. Many playwrights, such as Aphra Behn and George Etherege, gained popularity during this period, marking the rise of female playwrights in English literature.
5. The Restoration period saw a blending of styles from previous eras, incorporating elements from classical theater, commedia dell'arte, and English moralities.

Review Questions

• What were the social and political factors that led to the closure of theaters prior to 1660 and how did their reopening impact society?
  • The closure of theaters before 1660 was primarily driven by Puritan beliefs that deemed theater immoral and a distraction from religious practices. After the restoration of King Charles II, theaters reopened as part of a larger cultural revival that encouraged public entertainment and artistic expression. This shift not only reinvigorated the arts but also reflected changing attitudes towards morality and public life, allowing for greater freedom of expression in theater and society at large.
• Compare the characteristics of Restoration comedy with earlier forms of English drama that existed before 1642.
  • Restoration comedy is distinguished by its sophisticated wit, intricate plots, and often risqué themes involving sexual politics and social commentary. In contrast to earlier forms like morality plays or medieval dramas which focused on moral lessons or religious themes, Restoration comedy embraced a more hedonistic worldview. It reflected contemporary social mores and was often performed in venues that catered to a more elite audience, signaling a shift towards entertainment as a form of social engagement rather than solely moral instruction.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the reopening of theaters in 1660 on English literature and theater practices up to the present day.
  • The reopening of theaters in 1660 set a precedent for artistic freedom that significantly influenced English literature and theater practices for centuries. It initiated an era where playwrights could explore diverse themes and characters without stringent censorship, paving the way for modern drama. The introduction of Restoration comedy laid the groundwork for future genres such as melodrama and farce while promoting a more diverse representation on stage. This evolution has continued into contemporary theater, where innovation and experimentation remain central to performance art today.

Related terms

Puritanism: A religious movement that sought to purify the Church of England, leading to strict moral codes and the temporary banning of theaters and other forms of entertainment.

Restoration Comedy: A genre of comedic plays that emerged after the reopening of theaters, characterized by witty dialogue, complex plots, and themes of sexual intrigue and social satire.

Dramatic Licensing Act: An act passed in 1737 that required plays to be licensed by the Lord Chamberlain, reflecting ongoing regulation of theatrical performances in England.