Notes on the Globe Theatre Lecture

Introduction

• The Globe Theatre is the third iteration of the Globe Theatre in London.
• The first Globe Theatre was built around 1598 and opened in 1599.
• It was one of four significant theaters: the Hope, the Swan, and the Rose.

Historical Context

• The original Globe was not on the same site as the current one; it was built when the River Thames was wider.
• The original site is approximately 200 yards away and marked by a plaque.
• Rediscovered foundations in 1989; future excavation is hoped for to uncover more information.

Theatrical Environment in Elizabethan London

• Theaters were primarily built on the south bank of the Thames due to popularity.
• The area known as Bankside was a hub for entertainment, including bear and bull baiting.
• Theater-going was popular among all social classes.
• Public transportation included ferry boats or walking over London Bridge, the only bridge at the time.
• Theaters advertised performances by raising a flag visible from the north bank.

The First Globe Theatre

• Opened in 1599 and hosted many of Shakespeare's works.
• Saw significant historical events, including Queen Elizabeth's death and James I's accession.
• The first Globe burnt down in 1613 due to a cannon accident during a performance of "Henry VIII."

Subsequent Theatres

• A second Globe was rebuilt in 1614 but was closed and demolished by Puritans in 1642-1644.
• The current Globe Theatre is a replica, constructed starting in 1993 and opened in 1997 by Queen Elizabeth II.

Architectural Details

• The modern Globe is open to the sky, relying on sunlight for lighting.
• Performances occurred mainly in the afternoon to allow audiences safe travel home.
• The roof is made of Norfolk reed thatch, the first since the Great Fire of 1666.
• Walls constructed from Lincolnshire oak and a plaster mix of sand, lime, and goat hair.

Interior Layout

• Based on a sketch by Johannes Davitt of the Swan Theatre.
• The Globe features a 20-sided circular shape.
• The open area is called the "pit" or "yard", where standing audience members (Groundlings) watched for one penny.
• Galleries around the pit offered seating for 2-3 thousand people at two or more pennies.
• Closest seats to the stage were the most expensive.

Audience Experience

• Audience referred to attending as "hearing a play" rather than "seeing a play."
• Significant audience engagement, with actors performing for patrons close to the stage.

Performers and Stage Design

• All roles were played by men and boys; elaborate costumes were used.
• The stage extended into the pit, allowing audience proximity.
• Roof supported by two painted pillars (Herculean style) representing marble.
• The "heavens" above the stage featured painted zodiac signs and moon imagery.
• The stage had a trapdoor for effects (e.g., graves in Hamlet).
• A balcony for musicians also served as a location in plays like "Romeo and Juliet."

Conclusion

• The Globe Theatre remains a vital part of English history and contemporary London culture.