Here are a few reasons why the average playgoer may have faced challenges:
1. Complexity of Plays: Plays often conveyed complex themes, storylines, and character developments. The average person might not have had the same level of education or literary background to fully grasp the intricacies of the plot or the literary allusions.
2. Specialized Vocabulary: Playwrights often employed specialized vocabulary, metaphors, and symbolism. Without prior knowledge or context, the audience may have struggled to understand certain words or phrases.
3. Cultural and Social Context: Plays often reflected the cultural, political, and social realities of their time. Some plays may have included references or allusions to specific events, historical figures, or social norms that the audience might not have been familiar with.
4. Socioeconomic Factors: During certain historical periods, theater was primarily enjoyed by the upper classes, who generally had better access to education and cultural experiences. The average playgoer, who may have been from a different socioeconomic background, could have faced challenges in understanding the sophisticated language and themes presented.
5. Varying Literary Conventions: Over the centuries, literary conventions have evolved and changed. Some plays that are now considered classics might have been perceived differently by audiences during their initial performances.
Despite these challenges, early audiences still derived enjoyment from plays based on their personal perspectives, cultural experiences, and interpretations. They may have focused on aspects of the performance such as the spectacle, music, physical acting, and emotional connections, even if they did not fully comprehend every detail.