Vernacular drama

Definition

Vernacular drama refers to theatrical works that are written and performed in the native language of a specific region or community, rather than in Latin or other scholarly languages. This form of drama emerged during the medieval period as a way to make theatrical performances more accessible to the general populace, allowing them to engage with religious and moral themes in a language they understood. The rise of vernacular drama played a crucial role in the development of medieval theater, contributing to the evolution of performance styles and themes that resonated with local audiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Vernacular drama flourished in Europe during the late Middle Ages, particularly in England, where playwrights began to write in English rather than Latin.
2. The use of the vernacular allowed for a broader audience reach, as people from various social classes could understand and appreciate the performances.
3. These dramas often blended elements of comedy and morality, reflecting societal values and challenges faced by ordinary people.
4. Local dialects influenced the style and content of vernacular drama, making each performance unique to its cultural context.
5. As vernacular drama developed, it laid the groundwork for later forms of theater, including Elizabethan drama and the rise of playwrights like Shakespeare.

Review Questions

• How did the emergence of vernacular drama influence the accessibility of theatrical performances in medieval society?
  • The emergence of vernacular drama significantly influenced accessibility by allowing performances to be conducted in the native languages of local audiences. This shift meant that people who were previously excluded from understanding Latin plays could now engage with stories that reflected their own experiences, cultures, and values. As a result, it fostered a sense of community and participation in the arts, encouraging greater public attendance at performances.
• In what ways did vernacular drama reflect the social and cultural values of its time?
  • Vernacular drama often mirrored social and cultural values by incorporating themes relevant to everyday life, such as morality, faith, and community struggles. By using local dialects and relatable characters, these plays addressed issues that resonated with audiences. Additionally, they provided commentary on contemporary societal norms and tensions, which helped audiences reflect on their own lives and ethical dilemmas within a familiar context.
• Evaluate the impact of vernacular drama on the evolution of later theatrical forms, particularly in terms of language and audience engagement.
  • Vernacular drama had a profound impact on the evolution of later theatrical forms by establishing a foundation for writing in native languages rather than scholarly ones like Latin. This transition encouraged playwrights to develop characters and narratives that engaged audiences more personally and directly. The focus on local themes and dialects set a precedent for future playwrights to create works that not only entertained but also resonated deeply with diverse audiences, ultimately leading to richer storytelling and more dynamic performances in subsequent eras.

Related terms

mystery plays:

A type of vernacular drama that depicted biblical stories and events, often performed by local guilds during religious festivals.

morality plays: A genre of vernacular drama focused on moral lessons and the struggle between good and evil, often featuring allegorical characters.

interludes: Short comedic plays or performances that were often inserted between the acts of longer dramas, commonly using vernacular language.