Devils and vices in English non-cycle plays: sacrament and social body

Article Abstract:

Non-cycle plays in the pre-Reformation era had a ritual orientation. Early examples of the genre have personifications of the deadly sins accompanying the fiend and bringing about communal division with the sacraments as a way of restoring and keeping social wholeness. 'The Castle of Perseverance' is one example and includes three of the seven sacraments. Each sacrament is opposed by the divisive power of vices and fiends. Both court and popular playwrights shared a belief in the sacraments as the basis of social cohesion.

English drama

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Social disorder, festive celebration, and Jean Michel's 'Le Mistere de la Passion JesusCrist

Article Abstract:

English mystery plays became more rich with the inclusion of popular elements such as the contemporary games and politics and yet the deviation from only religious elements did not necessarily undermine religious content. An example of the richer mystery plays that were still strongly Christian is Jean Michel's 'Le Mistere de la Passion JesusCrist.' Michel includes pagan elements such as Fortune as an influence but ties Fortune to Hell and Christ to Heaven, making the Christian choice clearly the better one.

Social aspects, Mysteries and miracle-plays, Miracle plays, Mystery plays (Religious drama), Michel, Jean (Dramatist)

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Centlivre v. Hardwicke: Susannah Centlivre's plays and the Marriage Act of 1753

Article Abstract:

This article analyzes the popularity of Susannah Centlivre's plays 'The Busie Body' and 'A Bold Stroke for a Wife' in 18th-century London. Increased awareness of marriage's written legalities, Centlivre's challenges to male authority, and conflicts between will and desire are discussed.

Interpretation and construction, Critical Essay, Marriage law, English literature, 1700-1775 (Early 18th century), English neoclassical period, 1660-1798, Centlivre, Susanna

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