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How Did James I Contribute To The Theatre

237 Words1 Pages
In 1603, Queen Elizabeth I died and James the VI of Scotland became the new monarch, King James I of England. James loved the arts and was very generous to actors, playwrights, and other performers of the day. In particular, James I loved the theatre, and was captivated by Shakespeare's acting troupe, the Chamberlain's Men.

Within ten days of arriving in London, James insisted that Shakespeare's troupe come under his own patronage. They were granted a Royal Patent and changed their name to the King's Men, in honour of James. It was indeed lucky for the King's Men that James held them in such high regard, for in 1603 England saw its worst outbreak of the plague in decades, and all the theatres had to be closed. Shakespeare and his troupe were
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