William Davenant, English poet and playwright (b. 1606)

Sir William Davenant (baptised 3 March 1606 – 7 April 1668), often seen also as D'Avenant, was a towering figure in English literature and theatre, a distinguished poet and a prolific playwright whose remarkable career bridged one of the most tumultuous periods in English history. His journey through the literary and dramatic landscape of England is particularly notable because, alongside his contemporary Thomas Killigrew, he stands as one of the rare individuals in English Renaissance theatre whose professional life truly encompassed the stylistic and political shifts from the opulent Caroline era, through the austere years of the English Civil War and the Interregnum, and finally into the vibrant rebirth of the Restoration period.

Davenant’s life unfolded against a backdrop of profound change, demonstrating an extraordinary adaptability and resilience. Initially flourishing under the patronage of King Charles I during the Caroline Era, he was a celebrated playwright, contributing to the lavish masques and plays that characterized the courtly entertainment of the time. However, the outbreak of the English Civil War in 1642 brought an abrupt halt to public theatrical performances, as Puritan rule deemed such entertainment immoral. While many artists found their careers extinguished, Davenant navigated these treacherous waters with remarkable ingenuity. During the grim years of the Interregnum, when theatres remained officially closed, he famously circumvented the ban by presenting what he termed "entertainments," often featuring musical or operatic elements rather than spoken drama, which was more explicitly forbidden. This innovative spirit kept the flame of English theatre flickering during its darkest hour, paving the way for its eventual resurgence.

With the triumphant return of King Charles II and the dawn of the Restoration Era in 1660, Davenant was at the forefront of rejuvenating English theatre. He was granted a highly coveted royal patent, along with Thomas Killigrew, to establish one of the two principal London theatre companies – Davenant's being the Duke's Company. This pivotal role allowed him not only to revive classic plays but also to introduce groundbreaking innovations, such as the use of elaborate scenery and, most famously, the groundbreaking inclusion of actresses on the English stage for the first time, replacing the long-standing tradition of male actors performing female roles. His influence was instrumental in shaping the new theatrical landscape, laying foundations that would define English drama for decades to come, moving it decisively from the Renaissance into a new, more modern age.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sir William Davenant

Who was Sir William Davenant?
Sir William Davenant was a prominent English poet, playwright, and theatrical manager of the 17th century. His career uniquely spanned the Caroline, Interregnum, and Restoration periods, making him a crucial link in the continuity of English drama.
What was his main contribution to English theatre?
Davenant's most significant contribution was his instrumental role in the re-establishment of English theatre after its closure during the Civil War and Interregnum. As a royal patent holder during the Restoration, he founded the Duke's Company and introduced innovations like elaborate stage scenery and the use of actresses on the public stage.
How did he manage to continue his work during the English Civil War and Interregnum?
During the period when public theatres were closed by Puritan decree, Davenant ingeniously presented "entertainments" and proto-operas that skirted the strict prohibitions against spoken drama. This creative adaptation allowed him to maintain a theatrical presence and keep dramatic arts alive.
What unique position did he hold in English theatrical history?
Davenant, along with Thomas Killigrew, was one of the very few figures whose career successfully traversed the dramatic and political upheavals of the mid-17th century. He was active and influential both before and after the Civil War, providing a vital bridge between the pre-Commonwealth and Restoration theatrical traditions.
Was Davenant primarily known for his plays or poetry?
While he was a respected poet, particularly known for his epic poem Gondibert, Davenant is arguably best remembered for his profound impact as a playwright and, more importantly, as a theatrical impresario who shaped the Restoration stage. His innovative management and directorship of the Duke's Company solidified his legacy in theatre history.