Trace the growth of English tragedy since the Mystery and Miracle plays. (MEG 103) (RISE OF ELIZABETHAN COMEDY AND TRAGEDY)

 English tragedy evolved significantly from its roots in the Mystery and Miracle plays of the Middle Ages. These plays were typically performed by guilds and told biblical stories, often with a didactic purpose. Over time, secular subjects were introduced and plays began to feature historical and mythological figures.

During the Elizabethan era, English tragedy reached new heights with the works of William Shakespeare, Christopher Marlowe, and other playwrights. Shakespeare's tragedies, such as "Hamlet," "Macbeth," and "King Lear," explored complex human emotions and themes such as ambition, revenge, and the corrupting influence of power. Marlowe's works, including "Doctor Faustus" and "Tamburlaine," also delved into human ambition and the struggle between good and evil.

In the 17th century, English tragedy continued to evolve with the works of John Webster, John Ford, and others. These playwrights continued to explore dark themes and complex characters, but also introduced new elements such as the use of violence and sensationalism to shock audiences. The plays of this period were often performed in private theaters, such as the Blackfriars Theatre, which allowed for more intimate and intense performances.

During the Restoration era in the late 17th century, English tragedy took on a new tone with the works of playwrights such as William Wycherley and John Dryden. These works were often satirical and featured bawdy humor, as well as exploring themes such as the corrupting influence of wealth and power.

In the 18th century, English tragedy began to shift towards a more sentimental tone, with works such as George Lillo's "The London Merchant" and Richard Steele's "The Conscious Lovers" exploring the themes of love and honor. The 19th century saw a return to more classical themes, with the works of playwrights such as John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley exploring Greek and Roman mythology.

In the 20th century, English tragedy continued to evolve with the works of modern playwrights such as Samuel Beckett, Harold Pinter, and Tom Stoppard. These plays often explored existential themes and the human condition, as well as addressing political and social issues.

Overall, English tragedy has undergone significant growth and evolution since its roots in the Mystery and Miracle plays of the Middle Ages. The genre has explored a wide range of themes and subjects, from biblical stories to classical mythology to contemporary social and political issues, and continues to be an important part of English literature and culture.