Garter Company: A Comprehensive Guide
The term "garter company" is a historical and theatrical term that might not be familiar to everyone. It refers to a group of actors who were officially recognized by the King or Queen of England during the Elizabethan era. These companies were granted a royal patent, which allowed them to perform plays in the public theaters. Let's delve into the fascinating world of garter companies, their history, and their significance in the evolution of theater.
History of Garter Companies
Garter companies emerged during the late 16th century, a time when theater was gaining significant popularity in England. The first garter company, known as the Queen's Men, was formed in 1583 by Queen Elizabeth I herself. She granted them a royal patent, which gave them the exclusive right to perform plays in the public theaters. This patent was symbolized by a garter, hence the term "garter company".
Over time, more garter companies were formed. Each company was associated with a specific patron, who was usually a member of the royal family or a high-ranking noble. These patrons provided financial support and protection to the companies. Some of the most famous garter companies include the Lord Chamberlain's Men, which included the renowned playwright William Shakespeare, and the King's Men, which was formed after the accession of King James I.
Structure and Organization
Garter companies were structured in a hierarchical manner. At the top was the patron, who was responsible for providing financial support and protection. Below the patron were the sharers, who were the principal actors and shareholders of the company. The sharers had a financial stake in the company and were responsible for its day-to-day management. Below the sharers were the hired men, who were actors hired on a per-performance basis.
The companies also had a troupe of musicians and a stage crew, who were responsible for the technical aspects of the performances. The companies were mobile, traveling from town to town to perform in various theaters. They often performed in the Globe Theatre in London, which was one of the most famous theaters of the time.
Significance of Garter Companies
Garter companies played a significant role in the evolution of theater. They were responsible for the development of many of the conventions of modern theater, such as the use of scenery and props, the development of character types, and the use of soliloquies to reveal a character's thoughts and feelings.
Moreover, garter companies were instrumental in the dissemination of ideas and culture. They performed plays that dealt with a wide range of subjects, from history and politics to morality and religion. Through their performances, they helped to shape the cultural and intellectual life of the time.
Notable Garter Companies and Their Plays
Here's a table highlighting some of the most notable garter companies and the plays they are known for:
| Garter Company | Notable Plays |
|---|---|
| Queen's Men | Thomas Kyd's "The Spanish Tragedy", "The Famous Victories of Henry V" |
| Lord Chamberlain's Men | William Shakespeare's "Hamlet", "Macbeth", "A Midsummer Night's Dream" |
| King's Men | William Shakespeare's "Othello", "The Tempest", "The Winter's Tale" |
Legacy of Garter Companies
Garter companies ceased to exist after the closure of the theaters during the Puritan Revolution in the 17th century. However, their legacy lives on. The plays they performed continue to be studied and performed today. They laid the foundation for the development of modern theater, and their influence can still be seen in the conventions and practices of contemporary theater.
The study of garter companies provides valuable insights into the history and development of theater. It also offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and intellectual life of the Elizabethan era. Whether you're a theater enthusiast or a history buff, the world of garter companies is a captivating one that's well worth exploring.
