Restoration Period

Definition

The Restoration Period refers to the time in England from 1660 to 1688 when the monarchy was restored after the English Civil War and the Interregnum. This era marked significant changes in politics, culture, and theatre, transitioning from the strict Puritan rule back to royal authority and a flourishing of artistic expression, particularly in drama.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Restoration brought about a revival of theatre, leading to the establishment of new playhouses and a more commercial approach to performance.
2. Sentimental comedy emerged during this time as a reaction against the previous forms of comedy, focusing on moral lessons and middle-class values.
3. Domestic tragedy also gained popularity, depicting the struggles and emotions of everyday people, contrasting with earlier grand themes often centered on nobility.
4. Women began appearing on stage for the first time in England during the Restoration, changing the dynamics of performance and representation in theatre.
5. Playwrights like Aphra Behn became prominent figures during this period, contributing significantly to both sentimental comedy and domestic tragedy.

Review Questions

• How did the Restoration Period influence the themes and styles of comedy that emerged during this time?
  • The Restoration Period significantly influenced comedy by introducing sentimental comedy that emphasized moral lessons and relatable characters. This shift marked a departure from earlier styles that focused more on wit and satire aimed at higher social classes. The blend of humor with emotional depth allowed playwrights to appeal to a broader audience, especially the rising middle class, reflecting societal changes.
• Discuss the impact of women's presence on stage during the Restoration Period and its significance for theatrical performance.
  • The introduction of women actors on stage during the Restoration Period was groundbreaking and transformed theatrical performance. This change not only provided a new dimension to character representation but also challenged societal norms regarding gender roles. The visibility of female talent on stage opened doors for women in theatre, influencing future generations and altering perceptions about women's participation in public life.
• Evaluate how domestic tragedy as a genre evolved during the Restoration Period and what it reveals about society at that time.
  • Domestic tragedy evolved during the Restoration Period as playwrights began focusing on the lives of ordinary people rather than just nobility. This genre reflected societal shifts towards more accessible narratives that resonated with audiences facing their own struggles. The popularity of domestic tragedy revealed an increasing empathy for individual experiences and highlighted issues such as familial conflict, moral dilemmas, and emotional resilience in everyday life, providing a stark contrast to earlier grandiose themes.

Related terms

Charles II: The king who was restored to the throne in 1660, marking the beginning of the Restoration Period. He is known for his support of the arts and theatre.

Commedia dell'arte: An early form of professional theatre originating from Italy that influenced English Restoration comedy with its improvisational style and stock characters.

Theatre Licensing Act of 1737: An act that required all plays to be approved by a government censor, which affected the freedom of theatrical expression that had flourished during the Restoration.