* Religious beliefs: In the early 17th century, the English Puritans believed that women should not be seen in public, and that acting was a sinful activity. This made it difficult for women to find work in the theatre.
* Social conventions: In the early 17th century, it was considered to be socially unacceptable for women to act on stage. This was because women were expected to be modest and retiring, and acting was seen as a public and attention-seeking activity.
As a result of these factors, men played women's parts in the theatres in England until the late 17th century. This practice was known as "breeches roles."
Some famous actors who played women's parts in the Elizabethan theatre include:
* Edward Alleyn: Alleyn was a leading actor of the Elizabethan era. He was particularly famous for his portrayal of the female role of Cleopatra in William Shakespeare's play "Antony and Cleopatra."
* Richard Burbage: Burbage was another leading actor of the Elizabethan era. He was particularly famous for his portrayal of the female role of Desdemona in William Shakespeare's play "Othello."
* Robert Armin: Armin was a comedian who was particularly famous for his portrayal of the female role of Moll Cutpurse in the play "The Roaring Girl."
The practice of men playing women's parts in the theatre in England ended in the late 17th century. This was due in part to the increasing popularity of actresses, and in part to the changing attitudes towards women in society.