Why did the Commonwealth Parliament ban theatre?

Question

I've known for a while that theatre was banned under Cromwell, because the Puritans disapproved of it. What was their objection? Wikipedia adds this information: > Pastimes such as the theatre and gambling were also banned. However, some forms of art that were thought to be 'virtuous', such as opera, were encouraged. These changes are often credited to Oliver Cromwell, though they were originally introduced by the Commonwealth Parliament; and Cromwell, when he came to power, was a liberalising influence. Assuming that's true, in what sense is the opera more virtuous than the theatre?

Answer 1

Hello,

Your question has many factors at play, which makes it a good one. It is essential to understand the differences between opera and theater as it affects people's perception of the two. An opera is an art form that is wholly sung with no speaking while theater can have little or no singing at all. Since opera requires strict discipline and mastery for both composes and/or actor, it is seen with more reverence. Remember, at this time, people's talents were seen as a gift or endowment from God. These differences play an important factor in how people, especially the men of parliament, view the two. Also, opera generally does not have any commentary on current political affairs. English theater, on the other hand, could be very politically charged. Thus, the theater was seen as a form of art not fit for polite society, especially a Christian one.

Opera was also a newer form of entertainment in England. Opera was birthed in Renaissance Italy and would take time to root itself in English culture (as an aside, the first English opera would not be created until 1683). As a result, opera was not yet established in England when Cromwell had power majority in parliament. It would be King Charles II in 1660, who came after Cromwell with the restoration of the monarchy, that opera would flourish, and the bans on theater would gradually be lifted. Finally, opera at this time was and when it came to England was not for the poor. Only the wealthy, like the men in parliament, could afford to see opera.