The Narrow Path of The Tempest: A History of Its Performance

The significance of William Shakespeare's play The Tempest has long been overshadowed by its intermittent performance history. From the time of its initial run to its revival in the early 20th century, the play has faced a series of challenges and restoration efforts. This article explores the reasons behind the play's neglect and the gradual process of its rediscovery and reiteration.

Historical Context and the Puritan Ban

After Shakespeare's death in 1616, interest in his works fluctuated, and the English theatre faced another significant shift with the Puritan regeneration in the mid-17th century. The Puritans banned all theatres from 1642 to 1660, effectively interrupting the performance legacy of the Bard. It wasn't until the return of Charles II and the subsequent era of Restoration theatre that the stage began to accommodate Shakespeare's works once more. However, during this period, The Tempest was not universally embraced due to its intricate blend of romance, magic, and philosophical undertones, which did not align with the tastes of 17th-century audiences.

Changing Tastes and Neoclassical Ideals

As the 18th century advanced, the influence of neoclassical ideals dominated, dictating preferences for simplicity, clarity, and historical accuracy. The romantic and fantastical elements of The Tempest clashed with this new aesthetic, leading to its occasional neglect. During this era, many of Shakespeare's plays were adapted or altered for performance, sometimes resulting in the original versions being overshadowed or even lost.

Loss of Original Context

The allegorical and thematic richness of The Tempest, including its exploration of colonialism and human nature, required a deep understanding of 17th-century context, which may have been less accessible to 18th-century audiences. The lack of this historical background likely contributed to the play's decreasing popularity and relevance in subsequent centuries.

Adaptations and Alterations

The 18th and early 19th centuries witnessed a wave of adaptations and alterations of Shakespeare's texts for the stage. For example, in 1674, the play was significantly rewritten by John Dryden to become The Enchanted Island. These changes sometimes undermined the originality and impact of the play, leading to its neglect and eventual overshadowing by other works.

Revival and Rediscovery in the 19th Century

Against this backdrop, The Tempest began to see a resurgence in popularity in the late 19th century, particularly with the Romantic movement's renewed interest in Shakespeare and his imaginative themes of nature, magic, and redemption. This period marked a turning point in the play's performance history, as it gradually found its place in the theatrical repertoire.

The Challenges of Modern Performances

Even as The Tempest was rediscovered, concerns about its authenticity and integrity continued. The pursuit of historical accuracy often leads to a modern tendency to 'improve' Shakespeare's language and text. A notable example is the recent production of Much Ado About Nothing at the National Theatre, where a dramaturg was employed to help 'assist' Shakespeare, prompting questions about the true nature of his work.

Through this exploration of history, adaptation, and modern reinterpretation, it becomes clear that the performance legacy of The Tempest is deeply intertwined with the broader contexts of theatrical innovation and cultural change. As audiences and scholars continue to engage with this rich text, the play's journey remains a testament to the enduring power and complexity of Shakespeare's vision.