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Great Britain -- History -- Elizabeth, 1558-1603 Books
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E. K. (Edmund Kerchever) Chambers
The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 2
"The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 2" by E. K. Chambers is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the vibrant theatrical scene of the Elizabethan era, detailing various acting companies and the intricacies of performance culture during that time. It primarily focuses on the classification and history of theatrical companies and their performances in London from 1558 to 1616. At the start of the volume, the author introduces the framework for examining the theatrical companies of the period, discussing the dominance of boy companies in early Elizabethan drama. The introduction highlights how the Children of Paul’s, among others, played a significant role in court performances, particularly before adult companies found a firm footing. Chambers sets the stage for a detailed chronicle of various acting troupes and the evolution of performance spaces, hinting at the competitive nature of this theatrical landscape and the shifts in popularity between child and adult performers throughout the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.
E. K. (Edmund Kerchever) Chambers
The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 1
"The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 1" by E. K. Chambers is an historical account written in the early 20th century. This in-depth study explores the development of the Elizabethan stage as an institution, examining its origins and the socio-economic conditions that contributed to its evolution. The work focuses particularly on the Elizabethan Court and the theatrical practices that emerged during this vibrant period. At the start of the text, the author sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of the cultural and historical context of theatre in the Elizabethan era. Chambers reflects on his previous research and outlines the contents of this volume, which will cover topics such as pageantry, court plays, and the relationship between theatrical performances and the Court. He provides insight into the significant social forces at play during this time and emphasizes the layering of new research and perspectives that have informed his work over two decades. The tone is academic, establishing a strong foundation for the detailed analysis that will follow in subsequent chapters.
E. K. (Edmund Kerchever) Chambers
The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 3
"The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 3" by E. K. Chambers is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This volume focuses on the various aspects of staging during the Elizabethan era, particularly at the Court and in public theatres. The book delves into the intricacies of staging practices, theatrical innovations, and the influence of earlier traditions on the development of stagecraft during the Renaissance. At the start of the work, Chambers introduces the topic of scenic representation in Elizabethan theatre, emphasizing the importance of stage settings to support the complex plots found in contemporary plays. He discusses how various historical influences shaped the standards of staging, from early Renaissance practices to the evolving demands of the audience. As he outlines the transition from simple setups to more elaborate designs, Chambers highlights specific examples and concepts drawn from Italian staging traditions, illustrating how they impacted the English theatre scene, especially at the Court of Elizabeth I.
E. K. (Edmund Kerchever) Chambers
The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 4
"The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 4" by E. K. Chambers is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This volume serves as a comprehensive examination of Elizabethan theatre, focusing on various plays, masks, and entertainments of that era, as well as documents illustrating the cultural and critical reception of these works. The text provides critical analysis and references to a wide range of theatrical productions, including both attributed and anonymous works. The opening of this volume presents a structured outline of its contents, indicating a scholarly approach to the complexities of Elizabethan drama. It lists various anonymous plays and masks, showcasing their registration and performance history. Chambers introduces significant works such as "Arden of Feversham," "Apius and Virginia," and more, discussing authorship debates and the context in which these works were produced. This methodical framing sets the stage for a detailed exploration of Elizabethan theatrical practices, inviting readers to delve deeper into the dynamic world of 16th-century performance arts.
George Saintsbury
A History of Elizabethan Literature
"A History of Elizabethan Literature" by George Saintsbury is a historical account of English literary development during the Elizabethan era, likely written in the late 19th century. This work traces the progress and characteristics of prose and poetry from the beginning of Queen Elizabeth I's reign to the end of the Jacobean period, exploring numerous authors and their contributions to the literary landscape of the time. The opening of the text introduces the context and significance of Elizabethan literature, starting with Tottel's "Miscellany," which marked the dawn of a new poetic era and laid the groundwork for subsequent literary innovations. Saintsbury discusses key figures such as Sir Thomas Wyatt and Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey, emphasizing their influence on the evolution of English poetry. He reflects on the transition from medieval poetic conventions to a more personal and introspective form of expression, highlighting the blending of classical influences and the unique characteristics that defined Elizabethan literature.
Lucy Aikin
Memoirs of the Court of Queen Elizabeth
"Memoirs of the Court of Queen Elizabeth" by Lucy Aikin is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The work aims to fill the gaps in English literary accounts, focusing on the life and reign of Queen Elizabeth I and offering insights into her private life, the political dynamics of her court, the nobility, and the cultural milieu of her time. Aikin’s intention is to provide a detailed and engaging examination of one of the most iconic figures in English history. The opening of the memoir sets the scene by detailing the birth of Elizabeth in 1533 at Greenwich Palace and the tumultuous events surrounding her early life, including the political intrigue of her parents' marriage, the precarious political landscape of Henry VIII's reign, and the societal expectations of nobility. The narrative outlines Elizabeth's lineage, her declaration of illegitimacy following her mother's execution, and early political maneuvers that shaped her destiny. It introduces key figures in Elizabeth's life and illuminates the complexities of her position as she navigates a world fraught with danger, ambition, and shifting loyalties, establishing a foundation for her future reign as queen.
Martin A. S. (Martin Andrew Sharp) Hume
The Great Lord Burghley: A study in Elizabethan statecraft
"The Great Lord Burghley: A Study in Elizabethan Statecraft" by Martin A. S. Hume is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book focuses on the life and political influence of William Cecil, Lord Burghley, who served as a key advisor to Queen Elizabeth I and played a crucial role in shaping the statecraft of England during a tumultuous period in history. Hume aims to present a balanced view of Cecil as both a statesman and a man of his time, exploring his policies and the intricate politic landscape of Elizabethan England. The opening of the text sets the stage for Cecil's significant impact on English politics, introducing the political context of the time. It details the shifting power dynamics in Europe and how Cecil maneuvered through the influence of religious reform and the balance between Catholic and Protestant factions. Hume outlines the historical importance of Cecil's steady guidance to Queen Elizabeth, highlighting his political acumen amidst the challenges presented by rival nations and internal strife. The initial chapters establish not only Cecil's birth and early education but also the socio-political environment that would shape his future as a formidable statesman.
Paul Hentzner
Travels in England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth; with Fragmenta regalia or, Observations on Queen Elizabeth, her times and favourites
"Travels in England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth; with Fragmenta regalia" by Paul Hentzner is a historical account likely written in the early 17th century. The work chronicles the observations and experiences of Hentzner, a German lawyer and traveler, as he embarks on a journey through England during the notable Elizabethan era, providing insights into the society, culture, and notable figures of the time. The opening of the text introduces Hentzner's arrival in England, where he recounts his travels through various locales, beginning with his arrival at Rye and his swift journey to London. He describes the cities, notable structures, and the thriving atmosphere of London, emphasizing its history and splendor, including the significance of the River Thames and the iconic Tower of London. Additionally, Hentzner thoughtfully reflects on the architecture and the many famous individuals buried in London’s churches, providing a sense of the political and social landscape of Elizabethan England. Overall, the opening sets the stage for a detailed exploration of late 16th-century England, filled with historical anecdotes and vivid descriptions.
David Hume
The History of England in Three Volumes, Vol. I., Part D. From Elizabeth to James I.
"The History of England in Three Volumes, Vol. I., Part D." by David Hume is a historical work published between 1754-1762. Written while Hume served as librarian in Edinburgh, this monumental history spans from Julius Caesar's invasion to the Revolution of 1688. Initially met with outrage from all political factions, it became a bestseller that established the standard for English history. Hume's central aim was legitimizing the 1688 Revolution and crafting a unifying narrative for a nation still reeling from recent Jacobite uprisings.
Martin A. S. (Martin Andrew Sharp) Hume
The Courtships of Queen Elizabeth A history of the various negotiations for her marriage
"The Courtships of Queen Elizabeth" by Martin A. S. Hume is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the various marriage negotiations surrounding one of England's most significant monarchs, Queen Elizabeth I, revealing the complexities of her political strategies and personal relationships. It examines not only Elizabeth's suitors but the broader context of European politics during her reign. At the start of the work, Hume introduces the multifaceted character of Queen Elizabeth and her relationships with her contemporaries, elaborating on the intricate web of diplomatic maneuvering surrounding her potential marriages. The text recounts early proposals for Elizabeth's hand in marriage, highlighting the political motivations behind each suitor, including alliance considerations and power plays in Europe. These early discussions set the stage for a deeper exploration of how Elizabeth skillfully navigated the treacherous waters of courtly affections and international relations, establishing the groundwork for her legacy as a powerful and independent ruler.
Edmund Gosse
Raleigh
"Raleigh" by Edmund Gosse is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This biographical work chronicles the life of Sir Walter Raleigh, exploring his multifaceted career as a soldier, explorer, and courtier in Elizabethan England. The book aims to portray Raleigh's personal journey distinct from the broader political and historical context of his times. The opening of the book focuses on Raleigh's early life, detailing his birth in 1552 in Hayes Barton, Devonshire, and his ancestry, which includes notable figures such as his half-brother Sir Humphrey Gilbert. Gosse elaborates on Raleigh’s formative years, including his uncertain education at Oxford, his early military experiences in France, and the influence of his family on his adventurous spirit. The narrative sets the stage for Raleigh's later exploits as a prominent explorer and courtier, hinting at the ambition and complexity that would characterize his career and interactions with key historical figures of his time.
E. Allison (Edgar Allison) Peers
Elizabethan Drama and Its Mad Folk The Harness Prize Essay for 1913
"Elizabethan Drama and Its Mad Folk" by E. Allison Peers is a scholarly examination of the representation of madness in early modern drama written in the early 20th century. The text explores how insanity is depicted within different plays, considering both historical perspectives on mental illness and literary portrayals of mad characters. Peers aims to elucidate the prevalence and significance of madness in the works of Elizabethan playwrights, revealing how these representations reflect societal attitudes towards mental health and disease. The opening of the work introduces the author's premises, emphasizing the historical and literary importance of studying madness within Elizabethan drama. Peers argues that understanding how madness was presented can provide insights into the progress of societal attitudes toward mental illness during that era. He notes that the paper will consider madness from both historical and literary perspectives, focusing on various types of mad characters found in tragedy and comedy. Additionally, the author clarifies his approach will be literary rather than medical, aiming to interpret the dramatist's perspective while acknowledging the complexities of mental illness's portrayal in their works.
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