Theatrical Evolution in 15th Century Castile

15th Century Castilian Theater: An Emergence

The 15th century witnessed significant theatrical activity in Castile, with several important theatrical texts from this period still preserved. During the Middle Ages and into the 16th century, it is often difficult to clearly distinguish between purely theatrical performances and various commemorations, celebrations, and public events. Certain literary forms, while not strictly theatrical genres, could be presented as public performances through verses, dialogue romances, and other recitations.

The Danza de la Muerte: A Macabre Reflection

The Danza General de la Muerte (General Dance of Death), dating from the late 14th or 15th century, is part of a group of long poems known as the danse macabre. This period was profoundly influenced by an obsession with death, evident in preaching, art, and literature. This preoccupation stemmed from both ideological factors (a heightened awareness of living in a world in crisis) and social factors (recurrent epidemics of plague that devastated the population). In the Danza, Death, personified, invites everyone to join its dance, from the most powerful to the humblest peasant. No one questions the inequalities of life; only after death does true equality emerge.

Religious Drama: Autos and Christmas Plays

Typical medieval religious drama saw the emergence of several dramatic forms from the mid-15th century onwards. These works, often called autos or carros, were represented on mobile stages during the Feast of Corpus Christi and formed the background for what would later become the elaborate autos sacramentales (sacramental plays). Some notable religious dramas include two Christmas pieces (e.g., by Alonso Manrique and Gómez del Campo). A characteristic figure in Christmas theater, who would become very important in later theatrical development, is the shepherd bobo (foolish shepherd), possessing allegorical value beyond his primary comic design.

The Rise of Secular Theater in Noble Courts

By the end of the century, secular theater also began to flourish. This development was closely tied to the increasing refinement in the tastes of the nobility, who started hosting dramatic performances in their palaces. Popular theater, traditionally inseparable from public festivities, began transitioning from street performances to interior spaces, transforming and adapting to these new circumstances.

Juan del Encina: Pioneer of Spanish Drama

The first major playwright of this era was Juan del Encina. Despite his modest origins, his talent made him stand out as a musician, poet, actor, and playwright. These multifaceted skills placed him in the service of the Dukes of Alba in Alba de Tormes, Salamanca. His works encompassed both religious and secular themes. Encina was significantly influenced by Virgil, whose Eclogues he translated. He incorporated peasant characters, similar to the shepherds in religious drama, using spoken language and rustic humor. Encina later lived in Rome, a vibrant center where many of the best artists of his time resided, as the Italian Renaissance was then in full swing. His notable works include Égloga de Fileno, Zambardo y Mardonio, and Égloga de Plácida y Vitoriano.

Other Notable Playwrights of the Late 15th Century

In the latter half of the 15th century, other significant authors emerged, further shaping the theatrical landscape. These included figures such as Lucas Fernández, Gil Vicente, and Bartolomé de Torres Naharro.