Gorboduc facts for kids
The Tragedy of Gorboduc is a very old English play. It is known as the first English tragedy written in blank verse. Blank verse means the lines don't rhyme, but they have a special rhythm, like natural speech. Two writers, Thomas Sackville and Thomas Norton, created this play.
They got the idea for the story from a book called History of the Kings of Britain, written by Geoffrey of Monmouth in 1138. The play was first performed for Queen Elizabeth I on January 18, 1561. It was printed for the first time in 1565. Later, in 1570, it was printed again with a different name: The Tragedy of Ferrex and Porrex.
Contents
What is The Tragedy of Gorboduc About?
This play tells a sad story about a king named Gorboduc. He decides to give his kingdom to his two sons while he is still alive. This decision causes a lot of trouble.
The Royal Family's Conflict
Gorboduc's sons, Ferrex and Porrex, start to argue over who should rule. Porrex, the younger son, ends up killing his older brother, Ferrex. Their mother, Queen Videna, is very upset by this. She decides to get revenge for Ferrex's death by killing Porrex.
The Kingdom's Downfall
After these terrible events, King Gorboduc and Queen Videna are killed by their own people. The subjects were horrified by what had happened in the royal family. The play shows how bad decisions can lead to chaos and the downfall of a kingdom.
Who Wrote Gorboduc and How?
The play was a team effort! Thomas Norton wrote the first three acts, which are like chapters in a book. Thomas Sackville wrote the last two acts.
Influences and Unique Features
The writers looked at plays by an old Latin writer named Seneca for inspiration. Seneca's plays were often about serious and tragic events. However, Sackville and Norton didn't follow all the old rules. For example, they didn't keep the story happening in just one place or over a short time.
They did use some classic theater ideas, like a Chorus (a group of people who comment on the action) and a Messenger (who brings important news). But they also added something new: "dumb shows." These were like short pantomimes, or silent plays, performed before each act. They gave the audience a hint about what was going to happen next.
