1. The Pit (Groundlings):
- The pit was the largest section of the audience, located in the center of the theater.
- It was open to the sky, allowing natural light to illuminate the stage.
- The groundlings were the commoners who stood throughout the performances.
- Due to their proximity to the stage, they were often close to the action and could interact with the actors.
2. Middle Gallery:
- The middle gallery was a covered section above the pit.
- It was divided into two levels: the lower gallery and the upper gallery.
- The lower gallery was more expensive and offered better seating compared to the upper gallery.
- This section was typically occupied by the middle class, including shopkeepers, merchants, and skilled craftsmen.
3. Upper Gallery (Gentlemen's Rooms):
- The upper gallery was the most expensive and exclusive section of the theater.
- It consisted of private boxes and rooms that offered comfortable seating.
- This section was reserved for the wealthy elite, nobles, and important guests.
The arrangement of the audience in the Globe Theatre reflected the social hierarchy and economic status of Elizabethan society. The more affluent individuals had better seating and more comfortable facilities, while the commoners stood in the open pit. Despite these divisions, the theater brought people from different backgrounds together to enjoy live performances and engage with the world of drama.