Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
A dramatic genre that dramatizes historical events, especially English history, as seen in Shakespeare’s plays.
An old word meaning 'to this place,' frequently found in classical English drama. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
A term in classical medicine and drama referring to bodily fluids that affect temperament; also used to mean comedy. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
A poetic meter consisting of five iambs per line, widely used in English Renaissance drama by playwrights like Shakespeare.
A short performance between acts or scenes, often offering comic relief or thematic commentary in dramatic structure.
Pertaining to the period of King James I’s reign, known for darker, more violent English drama than the Elizabethan era.
A humorous or dismissive slang term for a wife, found in Shakespeare’s works and indicative of period attitudes. The term reflects both social norms and wordplay in English Renaissance comedy and can offer insight into gender roles and characterization.
A servant or deceitful man, often used in Shakespearean plays as a term of insult or social rank. This archetype is common in comedic and villainous roles in English Renaissance drama, revealing class tensions and dramatic contrasts.
The language of ancient Rome, used in early liturgical drama and by scholars during the Renaissance and Medieval theatre periods.
An archaic word meaning 'gladly' or 'willingly,' often used in English Renaissance texts to express preference or intent.
A uniform worn by servants or soldiers, often used in historical plays to signify rank or allegiance. Theatrical livery helps establish period accuracy and character identity.
Shakespeare’s acting company under royal patronage, instrumental in performing and popularizing his plays.