Hamlet 3.4 Dig Deeper: Prostitution in Elizabethan England

The transcript explores the themes of marriage, innocence, and prostitution in Elizabethan England, highlighting the harsh symbolism of marriage to Claudius. It delves into the punishment of prostitutes and the close association between theatre and prostitution, noting the geographical and social overlaps. The text also discusses the criticism of theatre for promoting immorality and vice, with historical figures like Philip Henslow and Edward Allyn owning brothels. The transcript concludes by examining the intersection of theatre with criminalized sexuality, including prostitution, homosexuality, and transvestism.

What metaphor is used to describe Gertrude's marriage to Claudius?

• A star shining

• A river flowing

• A flower blooming

• A rose turning into a blister

What was a common punishment for prostitutes in Elizabethan England?

• Imprisonment

• Branding with a hot iron

• Public shaming

• Fines

Why did city authorities want to close theatres in Shakespeare's time?

• They were unpopular

• They were expensive to maintain

• They were seen as promoting immorality

• They were too noisy

Which famous theatrical entrepreneur also owned brothels?

• Ben Jonson

• Christopher Marlowe

• Philip Henslow

• William Shakespeare

What other social practices were linked to the theatre in Elizabethan times?

• Political debates

• Homosexuality and transvestism

• Gambling and theft

• Religious ceremonies