The Evolution of Comedy Terms and Influence of Italian Commedia dell'arte on Shakespeare

In this episode, we look at the development of English comedy in the early modern era. We examine some of William Shakespeare’s early comedies, and we also distinguish Shakespearean comedy from other types of comedic performances which had been popular for centuries. We also look to Italy to see how developments in literature and drama there had an influence on the theater of Elizabethan England. And, as always, we see how those developments shaped the English language. Works discussed in this episode include:
The Taming of the Shrew – William Shakespeare
The Two Gentlemen of Verona – William Shakespeare
The Merchant of Venice – William Shakespeare

TRANSCRIPT: EPISODE 173