Golden Age of Spanish Drama

Spain's Comedia was a popular dramatic canon from the late sixteenth century to the seventeenth century, produced by the pre-eminent scholars in the field.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 640 pages
Publication date: 04 September 2018
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

Spanning from the late sixteenth century to the early seventeenth century, Spain witnessed the flourishing of a remarkable theatrical genre known as the Comedia. Renowned for its vibrant and captivating nature, this theatrical canon emerged as one of the most celebrated and influential in the annals of theatrical history. A testament to its enduring legacy, a dedicated team of pre-eminent scholars has diligently compiled, translated, and edited a comprehensive collection of the finest examples of this rich source. Alongside these invaluable materials, they have also provided an extensive scholarly apparatus, empowering enthusiasts and scholars alike to delve into the intricate nuances and complexities of the Comedia canon with greater depth and understanding.

The Comedia, a theatrical genre that flourished in Spain during the late sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries, holds a special place in the history of theater. It emerged as a vibrant and popular form of entertainment, captivating audiences with its witty dialogue, comedic situations, and memorable characters. The Comedia's roots can be traced back to the Italian Renaissance, where it was initially developed as a form of improvisational comedy. However, in Spain, it evolved into a distinct genre with its own unique characteristics.

One of the defining features of the Comedia was its emphasis on the everyday life of ordinary people. The plays often revolved around the struggles and foibles of common folk, their relationships, and their interactions with the social and political context of their time. The characters in Comedia were typically portrayed as relatable and down-to-earth, with their flaws and imperfections adding to the humor and relatability of the plays.

Another hallmark of the Comedia was its use of physical comedy and clowning. The performers, known as zanni, were skilled in physical improvisation, facial expressions, and body language, which they used to create hilarious and exaggerated situations. They would engage in pratfalls, slapstick routines, and clever wordplay, often poking fun at societal conventions and political figures.

The Comedia also incorporated elements of romance, adventure, and fantasy into its plots. The plays often featured love triangles, mistaken identities, and heroic quests, providing a mix of humor, drama, and excitement for the audience.

Over the years, the Comedia became a popular form of entertainment across Spain and its colonies. It was performed in theaters, public squares, and even in private homes, reaching a wide audience. The genre was particularly popular among the lower classes, who found solace and laughter in the plays' portrayal of their everyday struggles and aspirations.

Despite its popularity, the Comedia faced criticism from some quarters. Some critics argued that it was too focused on low humor and vulgarity, while others criticized its portrayal of women and social hierarchies. However, the Comedia's enduring legacy lies in its ability to bring joy and laughter to people's lives, and its impact on the development of theatrical genres can still be seen today.

In conclusion, the Comedia was a theatrical genre that flourished in Spain during the late sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries. It was characterized by its emphasis on the everyday life of ordinary people, its use of physical comedy and clowning, and its incorporation of romance, adventure, and fantasy into its plots. The Comedia's popularity and influence extended beyond Spain, and its legacy continues to be felt in the world of theater today. Whether through its humor, its social commentary, or its ability to bring joy to audiences, the Comedia remains a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of theatrical entertainment.

Weight: 492g
Dimension: 145 x 235 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780393923629
Edition number: Critical ed