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What did men wear in plays?

Men's clothing in Elizabethan theatre varied depending on the genre of the play and the social status of the character they were portraying.

1. Shakespearean drama:

a. Upper-class men: Wore elaborate costumes consisting of a doublet (a fitted jacket with sleeves), a cloak, hose (tight-fitting leggings), and a codpiece (a decorative garment covering the crotch area).

b. Lower-class men: Wore simpler clothing such as tunics, jerkins (short jackets), and breeches.

2. Elizabethan comedies and romances:

a. Men in love: Often wore fanciful clothing such as brightly colored doublets, plumed hats, and ornate accessories to reflect their romantic nature.

b. Servants and clowns: Wore patched, ragged clothes to depict their comedic roles.

3. Elizabethan history plays:

a. Royalty and noblemen: Wore historically accurate costumes inspired by the time period depicted in the play. These included robes, crowns, and other regal accessories.

b. Soldiers: Wore armor and carried swords, spears, or other weapons appropriate for the era.

4. Elizabethan morality plays:

a. Allegorical figures: Wore symbolic costumes to represent virtues and vices. For example, the character representing virtue might wear a white robe and angel wings, while the character representing vice might wear a black robe and a devilish tail.

Overall, men's costuming in Elizabethan theatre was characterized by its vibrant colors, elaborate designs, and attention to historical detail, reflecting the diverse range of characters and stories portrayed on stage during that period.

Theater Costumes

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