Jacobean and Elizabethan era
In the Jacobean era, the body of the plays were written between 1603-1625 separate from the Elizabethan era which was from 1558 to 1603. The Jacobean era was known for its exploration of tragedy with the most famous playwright, William Shakespeare. The theatre of the time reflects the political and societal maturity, as plays like 'Macbeth' by William Shakespeare was made in mind of the monarch of that time, Charles II, so he would be favoured, by putting glory on kingship. Elizabethan theatre had a few popular dramas; comedies, romances, and tragedies. The plays were also based on religious themes, being called "morality plays", whereas other plays showing stories of the bible were called "miracle plays".
Playwrights from the Jacobean and Elizabethan eras
Thomas Middleton (1580-1627)
He was an English poet and playwright, known as one of the most successful playwrights, he gained success from comedic and tragic plays. He also wrote masques, dramatic entertainment with music, dancing, singing, and acting, as well as pageants.
Ben Jonson (1572-1637)
He was an English poet and playwright, and he was known for his influence in the popularisation of comedies. He was known for his satirical plays such as: 'Every Man in His Humour' and 'The Alchemist'. He is regarded as the second most important playwright during the reign of James I.
John Fletcher (1579-1625
He was an English playwright, following William Shakespeare as the playwright for the King's Men, listed among the most prolific and influential playwrights of the time, and his fame rivalled Shakespeare's, he collaborated in writing plays with Francis Beaumont, Phillip Massinger, and William Shakespeare. He wrote plays such as: 'Philaster' and 'The Two Noble Kinsmen'.