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1429 BCE
1429- Revival of Classical Texts
Humanist scholars began recovering Greek and Roman works, sparking a revival of interest in non-religious themes, character-focused storytelling, and classical dramatic forms in Renaissance theatre. (Brockett Hildy 97). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Petrarch Manuscript -
Period: 1429 to
1429-1637
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1486
1486- First Printing of Platutus’ Plays
The printing press enabled wide access to Roman comedies like Plautus’, deeply influencing the work of Renaissance playwrights and shaping the preferences of their audiences. (Wilson Goldfarb 128). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Plautus Works -
1545
1545- Serlio Publishes Architettura
Serlio’s treatise introduced standardized perspective scenery and raked stages, influencing stage design throughout Europe (Wilson Goldfarb 135). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Serlio’s Theater Designs -
1576
1576- The Theatre Built in London
James Burbage constructed England’s first public playhouse. It’s success transformed theatrical performance into both a thriving business and a significant cultural institution. (Brockett Hildy 142). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – The Theatre -
1580
1580- Commedia dell’Arte Flourishes
This Italian form of improv theatre used masked stock characters and physical comedy, influencing acting and comedy across Europe (Wilson Goldfarb 150). -
1585- Teatro Olimpico Opens
Designed by Palladio and completed by Scamozzi, the Olimpico featured a fully enclosed theatre with permanent perspective scenery—radically advancing stage design (Brockett Hildy 120). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Teatro Olimpico Interior -
1590- Theatrical Printing Revolution
The printing of scripts (e.g., Marlowe, Shakespeare) expanded the reach of theatre texts and elevated their literary value (Wilson Goldfarb 128). Image source: Folger Library – First Folio -
1599- The Globe Theatre Opens
Shakespeare’s company opened the Globe, renowned for its thrust stage and legendary productions, it became the centerpiece of Elizabethan theatre.(Brockett Hildy 145). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Globe Theatre -
1603- Shakespeare’s Company Becomes the King’s Men
Granted royal patronage by James I, Shakespeare’s troupe gained prestige and funding, marking official support of professional theatre (Wilson Goldfarb 153). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – King James I -
1637- Teatro San Cassiano Opens in Venice
The world’s first public opera house, San Cassiano introduced opera to a paying audience, combining theatre and music in a new commercial form (Wilson Goldfarb 160). Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Teatro San Cassiano