Notes on the Globe Theatre

Overview

• The Globe Theatre in London is the third Globe Theatre.
• First Globe built around 1598 and opened in 1599.
• One of four important theatres: the Hope, Swan, and Rose were the others.
• Original Globe's site is near the modern theatre, marked by a plaque.
• Foundations rediscovered in 1989.

Historical Context

• Theatres built mostly on the south bank of the River Thames during Elizabeth I's reign.
• The area known as Bankside was a popular entertainment spot.
• Bear and bull baiting were popular pastimes.
• The public traveled by ferry or on foot across London Bridge to theatres.
• Theaters advertised performances by raising flags visible from the north bank.

First Globe Theatre

• Opened in 1599, hosted many of Shakespeare's works.
• Survived until the death of Queen Elizabeth and the accession of James I.
• Burned down in 1613 due to a cannon accident during a performance of "Henry VIII".

Second Globe Theatre

• Rebuilt in 1614 on the same site.
• Closed in 1642 by Puritans, demolished in 1644 for tenements.

Third Globe Theatre

• A faithful reproduction of the original, constructed due to Sam Wanamaker's efforts.
• Officially opened in 1997 by Queen Elizabeth II.
• Center of the theatre is open to the sky; performances began in the afternoon.
• No performances during Lent or plague outbreaks.

Architectural Features

• Roof made of Norfolk reed thatch; first thatched roof in London since 1666.
• Walls built with Lincolnshire oak and plaster from sand, lime, and goat hair.
• Layout based on a sketch of the Swan Theatre by Johannes Davitt.
• Globe's shape is circular, 20-sided, with an open-air pit and galleries.

Audience Experience

• The pit (yard) was for standing audience (Groundlings) costing a penny.
• Galleries held 2-3 thousand people at higher prices—closer seats were more expensive.
• The phrase "I’m going to hear a play" reflects the importance of the script.

Stage and Performances

• The stage projects into the pit, surrounded on three sides by the audience.
• Actors were all male, playing both genders, with elaborate costumes.
• Stage supported by Herculean pillars with a painted ceiling (the heavens) for special effects.
• The stage has a trapdoor for dramatic effects like in "Hamlet".
• A balcony provided space for musicians and served as a setting in plays like "Romeo and Juliet".

Cultural Significance

• The Globe Theatre is an important aspect of English history and contemporary London.