The Great Fire of London

Definition

The Great Fire of London was a devastating fire that swept through the central parts of London from September 2 to September 6, 1666. It significantly impacted the city’s architecture, urban planning, and cultural life, leading to the emergence of new forms of entertainment and drama, particularly in the context of Restoration Comedy and Drama in England.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Fire destroyed approximately 13,200 houses, 87 parish churches, and numerous other buildings including St. Paul's Cathedral.
2. Following the fire, Sir Christopher Wren played a crucial role in the rebuilding of London, designing many new buildings and contributing to the overall urban plan.
3. The aftermath of the Great Fire led to stricter building regulations, including the use of brick and stone instead of wood to prevent future fires.
4. The fire prompted an increase in public entertainment as people sought diversions during the rebuilding phase, influencing the popularity of Restoration Comedy.
5. The Great Fire is often viewed as a turning point that ultimately led to a more modern city with improved infrastructure and urban planning.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Fire of London influence the development of Restoration Comedy?
  • The Great Fire significantly influenced Restoration Comedy by creating a new environment for theatrical performances. As London rebuilt itself after the destruction, there was a surge in public interest in entertainment, leading to an increase in theatre productions. The reconstruction period saw playwrights using themes related to rebirth and societal change in their works, which contributed to the unique flavor of Restoration Comedy during that time.
• Discuss the role of architecture and urban planning in shaping London's theatre scene after the Great Fire.
  • After the Great Fire, urban planning underwent major changes that directly impacted the theatre scene in London. The reconstruction led to new architectural styles that allowed for larger and more elaborate theatres. The move towards brick and stone construction not only improved safety but also provided better acoustics for performances. As theatres became grander, they attracted larger audiences and encouraged innovative plays that shaped the future of English drama.
• Evaluate how the Great Fire of London served as a catalyst for change in cultural practices and public life during the Restoration period.
  • The Great Fire acted as a catalyst for cultural change by disrupting the status quo and prompting new ways for people to engage with public life. In its wake, there was a need for communal activities and forms of entertainment as citizens sought distraction from the chaos. This led to a flourishing of theatre, with Restoration Comedy gaining popularity as a reflection of societal shifts. The event also encouraged advancements in architecture and urban design that shaped cultural practices for years to come, fostering an environment ripe for creativity and innovation.

Related terms

Restoration: The period in English history when the monarchy was restored under Charles II in 1660, leading to significant changes in theatre and culture.

Samuel Pepys: A notable English naval administrator and Member of Parliament, whose diaries provide a detailed first-hand account of the Great Fire and its effects on London.

Theatre Reconstruction: The rebuilding and redesigning of theatres in London following the Great Fire, which reflected new architectural styles and an evolving approach to performance.