The Spanish Tragedy

Definition

The Spanish Tragedy is a significant Elizabethan revenge tragedy written by Thomas Kyd, first performed in the late 1580s. This play is often regarded as a precursor to Shakespeare's works, exploring themes of vengeance, madness, and justice through its complex characters and dramatic structure. It blends elements of horror and spectacle, influencing the evolution of English drama during the Renaissance period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Spanish Tragedy is notable for its use of the ghostly figure of Don Andrea, who drives the action from beyond the grave, highlighting themes of mortality and revenge.
2. The play features an intricate plot with multiple layers of conflict, including personal vendettas and political intrigue, which keeps the audience engaged.
3. Kyd's work laid the groundwork for future playwrights, particularly influencing Shakespeare’s own handling of revenge and complex characters in his plays.
4. The Spanish Tragedy incorporates meta-theatrical elements, where the action on stage reflects upon itself, inviting commentary on the nature of drama and reality.
5. Its popularity led to a surge in similar works during the late 16th century, establishing revenge tragedy as a defining genre in early English theatre.

Review Questions

• How does The Spanish Tragedy reflect the conventions of revenge tragedy as a genre?
  • The Spanish Tragedy embodies the key conventions of revenge tragedy through its focus on themes of vengeance and moral conflict. The protagonist, Hieronimo, embarks on a quest for revenge after his son is murdered, showcasing the emotional turmoil characteristic of this genre. Additionally, Kyd employs various dramatic devices like soliloquies and asides that reveal Hieronimo's internal struggles, further aligning the play with established revenge tragedy norms.
• Analyze how The Spanish Tragedy incorporates elements from Senecan drama and their impact on character development.
  • The Spanish Tragedy draws heavily from Senecan drama, evident in its exploration of intense emotions and moral complexity. Characters like Hieronimo demonstrate traits typical of tragic heroes, grappling with their desires for justice and the consequences of their actions. The incorporation of supernatural elements, such as the ghost of Don Andrea, not only heightens dramatic tension but also forces characters to confront their motivations and moral choices throughout the play.
• Evaluate The Spanish Tragedy's influence on Shakespeare and subsequent English drama in terms of thematic exploration and character complexity.
  • The Spanish Tragedy significantly shaped Shakespeare’s approach to themes like revenge and existential dilemmas found in plays such as Hamlet. Kyd's use of a complex protagonist facing moral ambiguity encouraged Shakespeare to delve deeper into character psychology and motivations. This influence extended beyond Shakespeare to later playwrights who embraced similar themes and structures, ultimately cementing The Spanish Tragedy’s legacy as a cornerstone of English Renaissance theatre.

Related terms

Revenge Tragedy: A genre of drama that revolves around the theme of revenge, typically featuring a protagonist who seeks to avenge a wrong done to them or their loved ones.

Senecan Drama: A form of tragedy influenced by the works of the Roman philosopher Seneca, characterized by its exploration of intense emotions, moral dilemmas, and supernatural elements.

Tragic Hero: A central character in a tragedy who possesses noble qualities but is ultimately brought down by a flaw in their character or fate.