Why are some of plays called histories?

Some plays are called histories because they are based on historical events or figures. These plays often dramatize real-life events, such as wars, political intrigue, or social change. By presenting these events in a dramatic form, playwrights can explore their historical significance and offer insights into the human condition.

Additionally, the term "history" can also refer to a genre of drama that focuses on historical events or characters. These plays are typically set in the past and may draw on historical sources, such as chronicles, biographies, or memoirs. By dramatizing historical events, playwrights can engage audiences with the past and provide a deeper understanding of how it has shaped the present.

Here are some examples of famous plays that are called histories:

* William Shakespeare's "Richard III" (1593): This play tells the story of the rise and fall of King Richard III, one of the most notorious monarchs in English history.

* Henrik Ibsen's "The Pretenders" (1864): This play explores the power struggles and political intrigue surrounding the Norwegian throne in the 13th century.

* Bertolt Brecht's "Mother Courage and Her Children" (1941): This play tells the story of a woman who follows the Thirty Years' War in Europe, selling provisions to soldiers and trying to protect her children.

* August Wilson's "Fences" (1985): This play explores the lives of an African-American family in Pittsburgh during the 1950s, addressing themes of race, poverty, and the American Dream.