The Rise of the Novel Amidst the Decline of Drama
The rise of the novel is intricately connected with the decline of the drama . By examining the context behind the waning popularity of drama, we can better understand the factors that created a space for the novel's emergence. Just as English poetry experienced a decline after the brilliance of Chaucer , English drama suffered similarly after the golden age of Shakespeare during the late sixteenth century. Reasons for the Decline of Drama Several factors contributed to the decline of drama, paving the way for the rise of the novel: 1. Puritan Censorship (1625–1660) During the Commonwealth period , under Puritan rule, drama faced severe restrictions: Theaters were closed: Performances were driven underground, often taking place in taverns or private homes. Emergence of drolls: These short, condensed plays gained popularity as they could be presented as "musical entertainments" to evade censorship. Suppression of creativity: The Puritan regime stifled artistic expression. Renowned …
