Lady Jane Grey (play) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lady Jane Grey |
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| Written by | Nicholas Rowe |
| Date of premiere | 20 April 1715 |
| Place of premiere | Drury Lane Theatre |
| Original language | English |
| Genre | Tragedy |
The Tragedy of Lady Jane Grey, often called Lady Jane Grey, is a play written in 1715 by Nicholas Rowe. It tells the sad story of Lady Jane Grey, a young woman who was briefly Queen of England after King Edward VI died. The play shows how she lost her power and was executed by Mary I in 1554.
Contents
About the Play
What is Lady Jane Grey About?
This play is a type of drama called a tragedy. It focuses on the real-life events of Lady Jane Grey's short time as queen. After King Edward VI died, there was a struggle for the throne. Lady Jane Grey was named queen for just nine days. However, Mary I, Edward's half-sister, gathered support and took the crown. Lady Jane Grey was later executed in 1554. The play brings these dramatic historical moments to life on stage.
Who Wrote This Play?
The play was written by Nicholas Rowe, a famous British writer of his time. He was known for writing tragedies. Lady Jane Grey was the last play he ever wrote.
When and Where Did It First Play?
Lady Jane Grey first opened on April 20, 1715. It was performed at the Drury Lane Theatre in London. A very popular actress named Anne Oldfield played the main role of Lady Jane Grey. Other important actors included John Mills and Barton Booth.
Why Was This Play Written?
Nicholas Rowe was a strong supporter of the Whig political group. He wrote this play during an important time in British history. In 1714, George I became king. He was a Protestant, and his family, the Hanovers, took the throne. This happened instead of James Stuart, who was a Catholic and also wanted to be king.
Rowe wrote the play to support the new Protestant king. He dedicated the play to Caroline, Princess of Wales. He compared her to Lady Jane Grey, suggesting they were both rightful Protestant heirs. Soon after the play came out, Rowe was given the important job of Poet Laureate. This meant he was the official poet for the king.
What Happened After?
Even though it wasn't Rowe's most famous play, Lady Jane Grey was performed many times in the years that followed. It even inspired an opera in 1836 called Giovanna Gray. An opera is a play where most of the words are sung.
