Here are some common themes that are explored in history plays:
- Power and corruption: History plays often explore the dangers of power and the ways in which those in positions of authority can use their power for their own personal gain.
- War and its consequences: Many history plays deal with the causes and effects of war. They can show the devastating impact of conflict on individuals, families, and entire societies.
- Social class: Some history plays explore the class structure of society and the ways in which social privilege can lead to oppression and inequality.
- Religion: History plays can explore the role of religion in society, and the ways in which religious beliefs can affect political and social developments.
- Family and loyalty: History plays can also examine the complex dynamics of family relationships, and the ways in which loyalty to one's family can come into conflict with other obligations.
- Fate and destiny: Some history plays grapple with the idea of fate and destiny, and the ways in which human decisions and actions can shape the course of history.
- The nature of heroism: Many history plays explore what constitutes heroism, and how heroic individuals are remembered by history.
Some examples of famous history plays include:
- William Shakespeare's "Henry IV, Part 1" and "Henry IV, Part 2": These plays depict the power struggles and political intrigue surrounding King Henry IV of England.
- George Bernard Shaw's "Saint Joan": This play tells the story of Joan of Arc, a peasant girl who led the French army to victory against the English in the 15th century.
- Arthur Miller's "The Crucible": This play is set during the Salem witch trials of the 17th century, and it explores the themes of mass hysteria and political opportunism.
- Robert Bolt's "A Man for All Seasons": This play tells the story of Sir Thomas More, a lawyer who refused to sign an oath supporting King Henry VIII's break with the Catholic Church and ultimately was executed for treason.
- Tony Kushner's "Angels in America": This two-part play explores the AIDS crisis in the United States in the 1980s in the backdrop of McCarthyism and the Ronald Reagan presidency.