ENGLISH LITERATURE (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -Elizabeth I was an active and generous patron of the theatre. She had her own acting company called the ‘Queen’s Men’, and stood against the puritans who wished to close down the theatres. Without her support the Elizabethan theatres would not have survived.

Detailed explanation-2: -One of the biggest history “facts” circulated about William Shakespeare was that Queen Elizabeth I was his patron. While very supportive of the arts, theater, and Shakespeare in particular, you may be surprised to learn that Elizabeth I was, in actual historical fact, NOT Shakespeare’s patron.

Detailed explanation-3: -Elizabeth I reigned for 45 years, from 1558 to 1603. Shakespeare, born in 1564, spent the majority of his life under her rule. The influence of the Queen, and the way in which she portrayed herself, was pervasive, and can be seen in many of Shakespeare’s plays, including The Merry Wives of Windsor.

Detailed explanation-4: -Shakespeare wrote and performed in London during the reign of two different monarchs, Queen Elizabeth I and King James I.

Detailed explanation-5: -As one of the leaders of the most prestigious theatrical companies of the day, Shakespeare was able to observe two monarchs at close quarters. Both Elizabeth 1 and James 1 enjoyed plays and performances took place in the royal palaces.