Overview of Shakespeare's Era

This page outlines the key aspects that will be covered in the document, including society, economy, religion, and politics during Shakespeare's time. It also mentions Shakespeare's London and the sources used for this information.

Vocabulary: The term "Jacobean era" refers to the period of English history that coincides with the reign of King James I $1603-1625$.

The Elizabethan Age and Early Jacobean Era

This section provides an overview of the historical periods during Shakespeare's lifetime:

The Elizabethan Age $1558-1603$ and the early Jacobean Era $1603-1625$ marked the climax of the English Renaissance. This period saw a rise in poetry, music, and theatre, but was also characterized by war, economic depression, and complex spiritual and political conflicts.

Definition: The English Renaissance was a period of cultural and artistic flourishing in England, roughly from the late 15th to the early 17th century.

The Elizabethan age represented a breakthrough from the Middle Ages, and much of this period is portrayed in Shakespeare's plays. This era laid the foundation for understanding the context in which Shakespeare lived and wrote.

Highlight: Shakespeare's works often reflect the society, politics, and culture of the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods, making them valuable historical sources.

Society in Shakespeare's Time

This page delves into the social structure and living conditions during the Elizabethan era:

• There was a great contrast between rich and poor, with widespread poverty.
• Living conditions, including food and education, were heavily dependent on wealth.
• The period saw high population growth and poor health conditions.
• Superstition was common, with beliefs in magic, witchcraft, and higher powers.
• Fashion was important for both women and men.
• Women had a remarkable role with more freedom compared to previous eras.
• Society was based on strict social structures with four main classes: Nobility, Gentry, Yeomanry, and Poor.

Example: The feudal system, illustrated on this page, shows the hierarchical structure of society, from the King at the top to the peasants at the bottom.

Highlight: The role of women during this period was notable, as they enjoyed more freedom than in previous eras, which is reflected in many of Shakespeare's female characters.

Economy in Shakespeare's England

This section outlines the economic conditions and developments during Shakespeare's lifetime:

• England profited from transatlantic trade and the theft of Spanish and Portuguese treasures.
• The colonization of Ireland and distance trade in spices and raw materials contributed to economic growth.
• The founding of the East India Company in 1600 laid the cornerstone for the future British Empire.
• The slave trade became a source of wealth.
• At the beginning of Elizabeth's reign, the state was almost bankrupt, leading to an austerity program.
• Low tax burdens contributed to positive economic development.

Highlight: The founding of the East India Company in 1600 was a pivotal moment in English economic history, setting the stage for future colonial expansion.

Vocabulary: "Austerity program" refers to a set of economic policies implemented by a government to reduce public expenditure and stabilize the economy.

Religion in Shakespeare's England

This page discusses the religious landscape during Shakespeare's time:

• Tensions existed between Protestants and Catholics following England's departure from the Roman Catholic Church.
• There was no separation between church and state.
• Shakespeare's generation was the first where the monarch served as the country's spiritual head.
• Queen Elizabeth I, a Protestant, was relatively lenient towards practicing Catholics.
• Specific laws, such as fining those who did not attend church, kept the Church of England firmly in place.
• Freedom of religion was generally assumed as long as laws were obeyed.

Quote: "Shakespeare's was the first generation in which the monarch served as the country's spiritual head."

Highlight: The religious climate of Shakespeare's time significantly influenced his works, with religious themes and conflicts often appearing in his plays.

Politics in Shakespeare's England

This section outlines the political landscape during Shakespeare's era:

• There was a balance of interests between the bourgeoisie and the nobility.
• Feudal structures slowly lost their importance.
• The country's administration was reformed, with Parliament gaining importance.
• Queen Elizabeth still held most of the power.
• England gained world power status, leading to economic rise.
• A broad middle class with material prosperity emerged.
• Humanistic educational efforts led to a high level of education.
• There were possibilities for social advancement.
• This period set the stage for the British Empire and colonization.

Highlight: The political climate during Shakespeare's time was characterized by a shift from feudal structures to a more centralized monarchy, with growing importance of Parliament.

Vocabulary: "Bourgeoisie" refers to the middle class, particularly those engaged in trade and industry.

Shakespeare's London

This page describes the living conditions in London during Shakespeare's time:

• London was the richest and biggest city in England, growing due to migration.
• It was overcrowded and difficult to live a good life.
• Living conditions depended on wealth.
• London was home to the first permanent playhouses.
• The city was mostly inhabited by noble and royal people.
• There was pressure from the strict government and societal role expectations.
• The reality of life in London was often different from the idealized version of the Elizabethan age.
• Living conditions were particularly hard for the poor.

Highlight: London during Shakespeare's time was a city of contrasts, home to both extreme wealth and poverty, and the birthplace of permanent theatres.

Example: The Globe Theatre, where many of Shakespeare's plays were performed, was one of the first permanent playhouses in London.

Sources (Page 9)

The document draws from various academic and historical sources, ensuring a comprehensive and accurate portrayal of the Elizabethan era.

Highlight: Multiple authoritative sources were consulted to provide a well-rounded understanding of the period.

William Shakespeare: Historical Context (1564-1616)

This page introduces William Shakespeare, the renowned English playwright and poet, setting the stage for an exploration of his life and times. The dates 1564-1616 mark Shakespeare's birth and death, respectively, encompassing the Elizabethan and early Jacobean periods.

Highlight: The timeframe 1564-1616 covers the most significant years of Shakespeare's life and career, coinciding with major historical developments in England.