Genres of Renaissance Tragedy

The book explores the versatility of Renaissance tragedy as a literary genre, providing new research into notable examples and offering a critical overview of the work of various dramatists.

Format: Hardback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 25 February 2019
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This captivating collection of freshly commissioned essays delves into the remarkable adaptability of Renaissance tragedy, unveiling its capacity to explore a diverse array of themes, including gender, race, and religious conflict. Moreover, it presents us with some of the earliest dramatic portrayals of the everyday lives of ordinary Englishmen and women. The book seamlessly blends perspectives from emerging and established scholars, offering a comprehensive and systematic examination of Renaissance tragedy as a literary genre. Employing a case study approach, each chapter not only provides a definition of a specific type of Renaissance tragedy but also conducts fresh research into a noteworthy or influential exemplar of that genre. Collectively, the essays offer a critical appraisal of Renaissance tragedy as a whole, examining the works of various dramatists and providing a comprehensive understanding of this captivating theatrical form.

Introduction:
Renaissance tragedy, a theatrical genre that emerged during the 15th and 16th centuries in Europe, holds a unique place in the history of literature and drama. It is characterized by its complex characters, intricate plots, and exploration of profound human emotions. This collection of essays aims to delve into the versatility and significance of Renaissance tragedy, examining its ability to address a wide range of issues and provide a profound understanding of the human condition.

Themes and Issues:
Renaissance tragedy explores a diverse array of themes and issues, including gender roles, power dynamics, social hierarchy, and religious conflict. It challenges traditional notions of morality and justice and encourages audiences to question their own beliefs and values. Through its exploration of these themes, Renaissance tragedy provides a lens through which to examine the complexities of human society and the struggles individuals face in their pursuit of happiness and fulfillment.

Characterization and Plot Development:
Renaissance tragedy is renowned for its well-developed characters, who are often complex and multifaceted. These characters are often driven by their desires, passions, and flaws, leading them to make morally ambiguous decisions that have far-reaching consequences. The plot development in Renaissance tragedy is typically intricate, with multiple layers of conflict and resolution that keep audiences engaged and invested in the story.

Influence on Other Genres:
Renaissance tragedy has had a significant influence on other genres of literature and drama, including Shakespearean tragedy, Romantic literature, and even modern theater. Its exploration of complex human emotions and its use of dramatic devices such as irony and symbolism have inspired countless writers and performers.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Renaissance tragedy is a remarkable literary genre that has the power to engage, inspire, and challenge audiences. Through its exploration of complex themes and issues, its well-developed characters, and its intricate plot development, Renaissance tragedy provides a profound understanding of the human condition and the complexities of human society. This collection of essays serves as a valuable contribution to the study of Renaissance tragedy and its enduring impact on the world of literature and drama.

Weight: 484g
Dimension: 237 x 168 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784992798