Write an account of the ways in which the theatre developed in Elizabethan England - AQA - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1

The construction of purpose-built theatres, such as The Globe, marked a significant change in the Elizabethan theatre landscape. These venues were designed for performances, providing better acoustics and audience capacity. The physical structure of these theatres allowed for greater creativity in staging plays.

Playwrights like William Shakespeare revolutionized theatre by introducing complex narratives and characters. Their works not only entertained but also invited audiences to reflect on social issues, thereby enhancing the respectability of theatre as a form of art.

The theatre became a social hub in Elizabethan times, catering to both the upper class and the lower class. The diverse audience range helped to popularize theatrical performances, with many people attending shows, thereby increasing demand for a variety of genres and formats.

While the Puritans often criticized theatre, their opposition paradoxically increased its popularity. The tension created by their disapproval made attending the theatre a rebellious act for many, thus further embedding it in the cultural fabric of society.