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Plays and Puritans   By: (1819-1875)

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Plays and Puritans by Charles Kingsley is a thought-provoking and engrossing exploration of the clash between traditional religious beliefs and the emergence of theater in 17th-century England. Kingsley weaves together historical anecdotes, literary analysis, and social commentary to create a compelling narrative that sheds light on a fascinating period in English history.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is Kingsley's ability to bring the past to life. Through his vivid descriptions and meticulous research, the author transports readers back in time to a world where religious fervor and moral strictures clashed with the burgeoning popularity of plays and the theater. It is evident that Kingsley holds a deep fascination for this era, and his enthusiasm is infectious.

Moreover, Kingsley's writing style is both eloquent and accessible, making the complex concepts and ideas he presents easily digestible for readers of various academic backgrounds. His scholarly analysis of key plays, such as "Hamlet" and "Macbeth," provides valuable insights into the societal attitudes of the time and how they influenced the playwrights and their works. This not only enhances our understanding of the plays themselves but also deepens our appreciation of the broader historical context in which they were written.

Additionally, Kingsley's exploration of the moral and ethical concerns surrounding theater during the puritanical era is particularly compelling. He investigates various arguments put forth by puritans who saw theater as immoral and sinful, juxtaposing them with counterarguments that defended the importance of the arts as a means of self-expression and entertainment. This dichotomy sets the stage for a larger discussion on freedom of expression, cultural evolution, and societal change, all of which remain relevant even in today's world.

Plays and Puritans presents a balanced view of the debate between the advocates and critics of theater, highlighting the complexities and contradictions inherent in both sides. While the book primarily focuses on the English context, it also draws comparisons to other nations and cultures, offering a broader perspective on the human experience and the universality of these debates.

In conclusion, Plays and Puritans is a captivating read that combines historical research, literary analysis, and social commentary to explore the clash between religious conservatism and artistic innovation. Charles Kingsley's passion for the subject shines through in his engaging writing style and his ability to bridge the gap between academic scholarship and general readership. This book not only offers valuable insights into 17th-century England but also invites readers to reflect on the ongoing tension between tradition and progress in our own society.

First Page:

This etext was produced from the 1890 Macmillan and Co. "Plays and Puritans and Other Historical Essays" edition by David Price, email ccx074@coventry.ac.uk

PLAYS AND PURITANS {1}

by Charles Kingsley

The British Isles have been ringing for the last few years with the word 'Art' in its German sense; with 'High Art,' 'Symbolic Art,' 'Ecclesiastical Art,' 'Dramatic Art,' 'Tragic Art,' and so forth; and every well educated person is expected, nowadays, to know something about Art. Yet in spite of all translations of German 'AEsthetic' treatises, and 'Kunstnovellen,' the mass of the British people cares very little about the matter, and sits contented under the imputation of 'bad taste.' Our stage, long since dead, does not revive; our poetry is dying; our music, like our architecture, only reproduces the past; our painting is only first rate when it handles landscapes and animals, and seems likely so to remain; but, meanwhile, nobody cares. Some of the deepest and most earnest minds vote the question, in general, a 'sham and a snare,' and whisper to each other confidentially, that Gothic art is beginning to be a 'bore,' and that Sir Christopher Wren was a very good fellow after all; while the middle classes look on the Art movement half amused, as with a pretty toy, half sulkily suspicious of Popery and Paganism, and think, apparently, that Art is very well when it means nothing, and is merely used to beautify drawing rooms and shawl patterns; not to mention that, if there were no painters, Mr... Continue reading book >>




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