Revenge Tragedy in English Literature: Seneca's Influence

The Impact of Seneca on European Renaissance The history of tragedy is diverse and intricate, and one significant phase in the dramatic movement was shaped by Seneca, a Roman dramatist of his time. Seneca's tragedies had a profound influence on Europe during the beginning of the Renaissance. Particularly in England, the Renaissance saw a remarkable advancement in tragedy, largely influenced by Seneca's ten plays. The Emergence of Revenge Tragedy The genre of Revenge Tragedy originated during the Elizabethan to Caroline period, spanning from the mid-1580s to the early 1640s. While Seneca wrote various kinds of tragedies, the Elizabethan playwrights were particularly drawn to Revenge Tragedies such as "Thyestes," "Medea," and "Agamemnon." Seneca's Revenge Tragedies vividly depicted murder, betrayal, and blood revenge against villains. They showcased excessive emotions such as hate, jealousy, and love, while incorporating sensational elements like su…