ABSTRACT
AN IMPORTANT, brief interlude precedes this era. While the death of Shakespeare alone does not send the English theatre into a state of mourning, his demise coincides with a downward spiral from theatrical greatness. Politics replaces art. Those for and against the monarchy struggle for power. The 1649 execution of Charles I proves that Parliament disagrees with him on the question of the divine right of kings. Oliver Cromwell and the Puritans take control, establishing the Commonwealth. A repressive atmosphere pervades. Theatre is officially called corrupt and eventually outlawed (1652). But with Cromwell’s death, the Puritans are no longer strong enough to control the Loyalists, and Charles II, who has been living in comfortable exile in France, is invited back to reclaim the throne for the Stuart dynasty. After years of self-denial, a longing for diversion and indulgence resurfaces. The Sin Squad Puritans wear black. Many now long for color. What follows is the reign of a king far more wild and licentious than his father ever was.
