Childhood, Education and the Stage in Early Modern England

This book explores how the representation of children in major playwrights and poets reflected the period's educational and cultural values, revealing how early modern performance and educational practices produced attitudes to childhood that still resonate today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 308 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In early modern England, childhood held a profound significance, as evidenced by the emergence of two crucial institutions: the school and the stage. The proliferation of grammar schools and universities, alongside the rise of the professional stage featuring boy actors, showcased the culture's significant investment in nurturing and educating children. This captivating collection, assembled by a distinguished group of scholars, delves into the intricate ways in which prominent playwrights and poets portrayed children during this era. Spanning from the works of Shakespeare and Ben Jonson to contemporary plays by Tom Stoppard, these chapters explore the multifaceted nature of childhood in relation to classical humanism, medicine, art, and psychology. By examining these chapters, we gain insight into how early modern performance and educational practices shaped attitudes toward childhood that continue to resonate today.

The school, a vital institution in shaping young minds, played a pivotal role in early modern England. Grammar schools, which emerged as a response to the demand for formal education, provided a rigorous curriculum aimed at cultivating knowledge and skills. These schools were often sponsored by wealthy individuals or religious institutions and were attended by boys from privileged backgrounds. The emphasis on academic excellence and rigorous discipline laid the foundation for future success, as it equipped students with the tools they needed to excel in their chosen fields.

In addition to the school, the stage also emerged as a platform for showcasing the talents and achievements of children. The professional stage featuring boy actors, known as the Children's Theatre, gained popularity during the 16th and 17th centuries. These performances were designed specifically for young audiences and often included moral lessons and entertaining stories. The boy actors, who were trained in specialized schools, brought a sense of realism and vitality to their performances, captivating the hearts and minds of their audiences.

The representation of children in plays and poetry during this period reflected the educational and cultural values of the time. Playwrights and poets often used children as characters to explore themes of innocence, vulnerability, and the complexities of growing up. They depicted children as active participants in their own lives, with their own desires, fears, and aspirations. This portrayal helped to promote a sense of empathy and understanding for children, as it recognized their agency and individuality.

Furthermore, the stage provided a space for children to showcase their talents and abilities. Many boy actors became famous and influential figures in their own right, and their performances inspired and influenced the development of theater and performance art. The Children's Theatre, in particular, played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of early modern England, as it promoted the values of education, entertainment, and social responsibility.

In conclusion, childhood in early modern England was a time of immense significance and investment. The school and the stage emerged as key institutions that shaped the minds and talents of young people. Through the representation of children in plays and poetry, playwrights and poets explored the complexities of growing up, promoted empathy and understanding, and showcased the achievements and talents of children. These practices continue to resonate today, reminding us of the importance of nurturing and educating our children and of the value of promoting their growth and development.

ISBN-13: 9781107476059