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According to the book Travel: London, Elizabethan theatres ‘had the support of everyone from the Queen to the peasants.’ How far do you agree with this view of people’s attitudes towards theatres between 1580 and 1603? - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 8 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 8
According to the book Travel: London, Elizabethan theatres ‘had the support of everyone from the Queen to the peasants.’ How far do you agree with this view of peopl... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:According to the book Travel: London, Elizabethan theatres ‘had the support of everyone from the Queen to the peasants.’ How far do you agree with this view of people’s attitudes towards theatres between 1580 and 1603? - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 8 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Evaluate the statement about support from the Queen and the peasants
Answer
Elizabethan theatres certainly enjoyed royal patronage, with Queen Elizabeth I herself attending performances. This support significantly elevated the status of theatres. However, the extent to which the lower classes supported these establishments varied. While theatres became popular among the working class, there were also criticisms of their morality and behavior, which suggests a more complex relationship.
Step 2
Consider the perspectives of different social classes
Answer
Theatres attracted a range of social classes, from the wealthy to the common folk. The lesser classes often viewed theatres as an escape from their difficult lives. In contrast, the elite sometimes regarded these venues with disdain, viewing them as places of vice and distraction. This indicates that while theatres were supported in principle, the attitudes toward them differed greatly by class.
Step 3
Examine specific incidents or attitudes towards theatres
Answer
There were significant events that shaped public perception of theatres. The closure of theatres during outbreaks of the plague demonstrated how fragile their support was. Additionally, puritanical criticisms in publications of the time highlighted the controversy surrounding theatre-goers, reflecting a divided opinion about the appropriateness of theatre in society.
Step 4
Assess how support from different classes might differ
Answer
While the Queen's patronage was a crucial endorsement, the everyday support of the working classes cannot be underestimated. However, this support fluctuated based on socio-political circumstances, indicating that the statement may oversimplify the dynamics of theatre support. For true agreement with the statement, one must consider the varied reasons behind both support and opposition.
Step 5
Conclusion on the overall attitude towards theatres
Answer
In conclusion, the statement that theatres had universal support from the Queen to the peasants is an oversimplification. While there was notable support, particularly from the royal family, a significant portion of the populace had mixed feelings about these establishments. Factors such as social class, personal values, and broader societal trends all played crucial roles in shaping people's attitudes towards theatres during this period.