Shakespeare and Theatrical Patronage in Early Modern England

During the past quarter of a century, the study of patronage-theatre relations in early modern England has developed considerably. This, however, is the first extensive, wide-ranging, and representative study of patronage as it relates to Shakespeare and the theatrical culture of his time. Twelve distinguished theatre historians address such questions as: What important functions did patronage have for the theatre during this period? How, in turn, did the theatre impact and represent patronage? Where do paying spectators and purchasers of printed drama fit into the discussion of patronage? The authors also show how patronage practices changed and developed from the early Tudor period to the years in which Shakespeare was the English theatre’s leading artist. This important book will appeal to scholars of Renaissance social history as well as those who focus on Shakespeare and his playwriting contemporaries.

Author Biography

Paul Whitfield White is Associate Professor of English at Purdue University. He is the author of Theatre and Reformation: Protestantism, Patronage, and Playing in Tudor England (1993) and editor of Marlowe, History and Sexuality (1998) and Reformation Biblical Drama (OP). Suzanne R. Westfall is Professor of English and Theatre at Lafayette College. She is the author of Patrons and Performance: Early Tudor Household Revels, and articles on patronage and household theatre.