Gender, race, and class representations in English Renaissance drama

Abstract

Gender, race, and class representations in English Renaissance drama have long been subjects of scholarly inquiry. The plays of Shakespeare and his contemporaries contain a wealth of complex and often controversial portrayals of these social categories, offering insights into the societal norms and values of the time. The Renaissance was a time of great social upheaval and change, and the plays of the period often reflect the tensions and anxieties of the era. Gender roles were strictly defined during the Renaissance, with women expected to be obedient and submissive, while men were expected to be strong and assertive. However, many plays of the period challenge these traditional gender norms, portraying women as independent and powerful figures who challenge the status quo.