Why Women Were Excluded from Acting in Shakespeare’s Plays
William Shakespeare’s works have captivated audiences for centuries, yet one intriguing aspect of his era remains relatively obscure: women were not allowed to perform on stage. This restriction lasted until 1660, long after Shakespeare penned his iconic plays like Othello.
The Historical Context
During Shakespeare’s lifetime in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, all female roles in plays were portrayed by young boys and men. The first performance of Desdemona, the central female character in Othello, by a woman occurred approximately sixty years after Shakespeare’s writing of the play. This shift marked a notable change in theatrical practices, especially highlighted by contemporary observers such as Samuel Pepys. He noted the significance of witnessing women on stage for the first time, stating: “the first time that ever [he] saw Women come upon the stage.”
The Proclamation of King Charles II
In 1660, the barrier against women performing in plays was officially lifted when King Charles II issued a royal proclamation allowing women to act. The proclamation stated: “Wee doe … permit and give leave That all the woemens part to be acted… maie be performed by woemen.” This change was a groundbreaking moment, signaling the beginning of women’s professional acting careers on the English stage.
Reasons for Gender Restrictions
The reasons underpinning the absence of women in public theater were complex and varied:
- Social Norms: The prevailing societal attitudes regarded public performance by women as inappropriate and indecent.
- Negative Views on Acting: Many, including Puritan writer William Prynne, condemned theater as “sinfull, heathenish, lewde, ungodly spectacles.” Such sentiments reinforced the notion that public performance was unsuitable for women.
- Cultural Comparisons: The situation in England contrasted sharply with that in other countries, where women performed professionally. This led some commentators, like Thomas Nashe, to criticize English theaters for their gender policies.
Despite not appearing on stage, women contributed significantly to the theatrical world of the time by taking on roles behind the scenes. They participated in various ways, such as managing costumes, handling admissions, and even owning theater venues.
Shifting Perspectives and Modern Casting
Since the royal decree of 1660, women’s involvement in theater has expanded dramatically. Historical gender norms have evolved, allowing women to take on leading roles traditionally played by men. For example, in 1899, Sarah Bernhardt famously portrayed Hamlet, and more recently, Jessika D. Williams played Othello in a 2020 production.
Conclusion
The legacy of gender roles in Shakespearean theater mirrors broader societal changes regarding gender and identity. As we reflect on the evolution of theatrical practices, we acknowledge the significant strides that have been made. Today, the stage is a platform for diverse representations of gender, creating an ever-evolving landscape that reflects our world.
Curiosity Continues
Children and adults alike continue to explore questions about history, culture, and more. If you have an inquiry, don’t hesitate to seek answers and broaden your understanding of the world around you!