How Many Sides Did The Globe Theater Have

Imagine stepping back in time, to a bustling London filled with the sounds of hawkers, the smells of roasted meats, and the excitement of theatrical performances. Picture yourself approaching a large, imposing structure, its flag billowing in the wind, signaling a play is about to begin. This is the Globe Theatre, the heart of Elizabethan England's theatrical scene, forever linked to the name of William Shakespeare. But as you gaze upon it, a fundamental question arises: how many sides did this iconic theatre actually have? The answer, surprisingly, isn't as straightforward as you might think. Delving into the history of the Globe, its construction, and the available evidence reveals a complex and fascinating story behind its true shape.

The question of the Globe Theatre's sides has been a topic of debate and investigation for centuries. While often depicted as a perfectly round structure, historical evidence and archaeological findings suggest a more nuanced reality. The answer lies in understanding the construction techniques of the time, the limitations of available materials, and the practical considerations of building a large-scale public theatre. This article will explore the evidence surrounding the Globe's shape, examining historical accounts, archaeological discoveries, and scholarly interpretations to uncover the truth behind its multifaceted form.

Unveiling the Globe's Shape: A Historical and Archaeological Investigation

Determining the exact number of sides of the Globe Theatre requires a deep dive into the available historical and archaeological evidence. This evidence comes from a variety of sources, including contemporary descriptions, illustrations, contracts, and the archaeological remains of the theatre itself. By piecing together these disparate fragments, we can arrive at a more accurate understanding of the Globe's shape and structure.

Historical Accounts:

• Contemporary Descriptions: While no precise architectural plans of the Globe survive, several contemporary accounts offer clues about its shape. Playgoers and writers of the time often described the Globe as a "wooden O," a phrase that suggests a circular or near-circular structure. However, the term "O" could also refer to other polygonal shapes, as circular construction was more complex and expensive.
• Illustrations and Maps: The most famous depiction of the Globe appears in the Visscher panorama of London, dating from 1616. This engraving shows the Globe as a polygonal building with a clearly defined number of sides. However, the accuracy of the Visscher panorama has been questioned, as it was created from a distance and may not represent a precise architectural rendering.
• Legal Documents and Contracts: Contracts for the construction of the Globe and other contemporary theatres provide information about the materials used, the dimensions of the structure, and the building techniques employed. These documents can help us infer the likely shape of the Globe based on the practical constraints of construction at the time.

Archaeological Evidence:

• Excavations at the Globe Site: In 1989, archaeologists uncovered the remains of the Rose Theatre, a contemporary of the Globe, and in 1990, they discovered a portion of the Globe's foundation. These excavations provided valuable insights into the construction methods used in Elizabethan theatres and helped to clarify the size and shape of the Globe. The Globe's foundations revealed a polygonal shape, confirming that it was not a perfect circle.
• Analysis of Building Materials: The types of materials used in the construction of the Globe, such as timber and plaster, would have influenced the shape and design of the building. The limitations of these materials and the available carpentry techniques would have made a polygonal shape more practical than a perfectly circular one.

By carefully analyzing these historical accounts and archaeological findings, we can begin to piece together a more accurate picture of the Globe Theatre's true shape. The evidence suggests that the Globe was likely a polygonal structure, with a number of sides that reflected the practical considerations of its construction.

The Case for a 20-Sided Globe: Examining the Evidence

While the exact number of sides of the Globe Theatre remains a subject of debate, the prevailing evidence suggests that it was a 20-sided polygon. This conclusion is based on a combination of historical accounts, archaeological findings, and architectural analysis.

Arguments Supporting a 20-Sided Shape:

• Visscher Panorama: As mentioned earlier, the Visscher panorama of London depicts the Globe as a polygonal building. While the accuracy of the panorama has been questioned, close examination reveals that the Globe appears to have approximately 20 sides. This visual evidence, though not definitive, provides a strong indication of the theatre's shape.
• Archaeological Findings: The archaeological excavations at the Globe site revealed a foundation that was clearly polygonal. Although only a portion of the foundation was uncovered, the angles and dimensions of the surviving sections suggest that the complete structure would have had around 20 sides.
• Construction Practicalities: Building a perfectly circular structure using the materials and techniques available in Elizabethan England would have been a significant challenge. A polygonal shape, with a series of straight sides, would have been much easier and more cost-effective to construct. A 20-sided polygon would have provided a reasonable approximation of a circle while remaining structurally sound and relatively simple to build.
• Acoustic Considerations: A 20-sided shape would have offered good acoustic properties for theatrical performances. The flat surfaces of the sides would have helped to reflect sound evenly throughout the theatre, ensuring that the actors' voices could be heard clearly by the audience.
• Comparison to Other Theatres: Other contemporary theatres, such as the Rose and the Swan, were also polygonal in shape. The Rose, for example, was initially built as a 14-sided polygon and later modified to a 16-sided shape. The prevalence of polygonal designs in other theatres suggests that the Globe would likely have followed a similar pattern.

While it's impossible to state with absolute certainty that the Globe had exactly 20 sides, the weight of the evidence strongly suggests that this was the case. The combination of visual depictions, archaeological findings, and practical considerations makes a compelling argument for a 20-sided polygonal shape.

Why the Confusion? Addressing Common Misconceptions

The persistent image of the Globe Theatre as a perfectly round structure likely stems from several factors, including simplified illustrations, romanticized depictions, and a general lack of detailed historical information. Understanding these misconceptions is crucial to appreciating the true shape of the Globe.

Common Misconceptions and Their Origins:

• The "Wooden O" Description: The phrase "wooden O," used by Shakespeare himself in Henry V, has often been interpreted as referring to a perfectly circular structure. However, as noted earlier, the term "O" could have been used more loosely to describe any rounded or polygonal shape. The term may have been more metaphorical, referring to the encompassing nature of the theatre experience, rather than a precise geometric description.
• Simplified Illustrations: Many popular illustrations of the Globe, particularly those found in textbooks and general history books, depict it as a simple circular building. These simplified illustrations are often created for ease of understanding and visual appeal, rather than strict historical accuracy.
• Romanticized Depictions: Over time, the Globe Theatre has become a symbol of Elizabethan England and Shakespearean drama. In many artistic representations, the theatre is depicted in an idealized and romanticized manner, often emphasizing its grandeur and historical significance over its precise architectural details.
• Lack of Detailed Information: Until the archaeological excavations of the late 20th century, there was relatively little detailed information available about the Globe's construction and design. The lack of precise architectural plans or detailed contemporary descriptions allowed for a degree of speculation and interpretation, which contributed to the prevalence of the circular image.

By understanding the origins of these misconceptions, we can approach the question of the Globe's shape with a more critical and informed perspective. The evidence suggests that the Globe was not a perfectly round structure, but rather a complex and multifaceted building that reflected the practical considerations of its time.

The Significance of the Globe's Shape: Functionality and Aesthetics

The shape of the Globe Theatre was not merely a matter of architectural convenience; it also played a significant role in the functionality and aesthetics of the theatre space. The polygonal design would have influenced the acoustics, sightlines, and overall atmosphere of the performances.

Functionality:

• Acoustics: As mentioned earlier, the flat surfaces of the Globe's sides would have helped to reflect sound evenly throughout the theatre. This would have been particularly important in an open-air venue, where ambient noise and weather conditions could affect the audibility of the actors' voices.
• Sightlines: A polygonal shape would have provided good sightlines for most of the audience. The angled sides would have allowed spectators in different parts of the theatre to see the stage without obstruction, ensuring that everyone had a relatively clear view of the performance.
• Structural Stability: A 20-sided polygon would have offered a structurally stable design. The straight sides would have been easier to construct and support than a curved wall, and the overall shape would have distributed weight evenly across the foundation.
• Efficient Use of Space: A polygonal shape would have allowed for an efficient use of space within the theatre. The straight sides would have created more usable area for the stage, the galleries, and the yard where the groundlings stood.

Aesthetics:

• Visual Appeal: While not perfectly circular, the Globe's polygonal shape would have still presented a visually appealing appearance. The symmetry and regularity of the 20-sided structure would have created a sense of order and harmony, enhancing the overall theatrical experience.
• Symbolic Significance: The shape of the Globe may also have had symbolic significance. The circle, or near-circle, has long been associated with ideas of completeness, unity, and the cosmos. By building a theatre in a rounded shape, the builders may have been attempting to create a space that reflected these ideals.
• Immersive Environment: The enclosed nature of the Globe, with its surrounding walls and galleries, would have created an immersive environment for the audience. The shape of the theatre would have contributed to the sense of being transported to another world, enhancing the emotional impact of the performances.

In conclusion, the shape of the Globe Theatre was a crucial aspect of its design, influencing both its functionality and its aesthetics. The polygonal shape, likely a 20-sided structure, would have provided good acoustics, sightlines, and structural stability, while also creating a visually appealing and immersive environment for the audience.

The Globe's Legacy: A Continuing Source of Fascination

The Globe Theatre, regardless of its precise number of sides, remains one of the most iconic and influential theatres in history. Its association with William Shakespeare, its innovative design, and its role in the development of English drama have secured its place in the cultural imagination.

The Globe's Enduring Significance:

• Shakespearean Drama: The Globe was the primary venue for the performance of Shakespeare's plays, including some of his most famous works, such as Hamlet, Othello, and King Lear. The theatre's design and atmosphere undoubtedly influenced Shakespeare's writing, and his plays, in turn, helped to shape the Globe's identity.
• Innovation in Theatre Design: The Globe's open-air design, its thrust stage, and its tiered galleries were innovative features that influenced the development of theatre architecture for centuries to come. The Globe set a new standard for public theatres and helped to popularize the form.
• Cultural Symbol: The Globe has become a powerful symbol of Elizabethan England, Shakespearean drama, and the rich cultural heritage of the English-speaking world. The theatre represents a time of creativity, innovation, and artistic expression that continues to inspire audiences today.
• Reconstruction and Revival: The modern reconstruction of the Globe Theatre, located near the original site in London, has played a vital role in preserving and promoting Shakespeare's works. The reconstructed Globe offers audiences a chance to experience Shakespeare's plays in a setting that is as close as possible to the original, helping to keep the theatre's legacy alive.

Whether it was a perfect circle or a 20-sided polygon, the Globe Theatre's impact on the world of theatre and literature is undeniable. It stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, the ingenuity of Elizabethan builders, and the enduring legacy of William Shakespeare.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Globe Theatre's Shape

• Q: Was the Globe Theatre perfectly round?

  • A: No, the Globe Theatre was likely a polygonal shape, not a perfect circle.

• Q: How many sides did the Globe Theatre have?

  • A: The prevailing evidence suggests that the Globe had approximately 20 sides.

• Q: What is the "wooden O" reference?

  • A: The term "wooden O," used by Shakespeare, is often interpreted as a reference to the Globe's shape, but it may have been a more metaphorical description.

• Q: Is the modern Globe Theatre perfectly round?

  • A: The reconstructed Globe Theatre is also a polygonal shape, designed to be as accurate as possible to the original.

• Q: How did archaeologists determine the shape of the Globe?

  • A: Archaeologists analyzed the foundations of the Globe, along with historical accounts and illustrations, to determine its shape.

Conclusion: Embracing the Multifaceted Globe

The question of how many sides the Globe Theatre had is more than just a historical trivia question; it's a window into the complexities of Elizabethan architecture, the limitations of available materials, and the enduring power of theatre. While the exact number of sides may never be known with absolute certainty, the evidence points towards a 20-sided polygon.

Embracing this multifaceted view of the Globe allows us to appreciate the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the builders who created this iconic structure. It reminds us that history is not always neat and tidy, but rather a complex tapestry of evidence, interpretation, and ongoing discovery.

So, the next time you picture the Globe Theatre, remember that it was not just a "wooden O," but a carefully designed and constructed space that played a crucial role in shaping the world of theatre as we know it. How does this new understanding of the Globe's shape impact your perception of Shakespearean drama?