The Shoemaker's Holiday: Or the Gentle Craft
48 pages • 1-hour read
Thomas DekkerThe Shoemaker's Holiday: Or the Gentle Craft
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Book Brief
102
Play • Fiction
•
Drama•
Comedy & SatireLondon, England • 1590s
•
Social Class•
Gender Identity1599
Adult
16+ years
Super Short Summary
The Shoemaker's Holiday by Thomas Dekker is a comedy set in Elizabethan London, featuring individuals navigating social hierarchies and pursuing love. At its center, a shoemaker and future Lord Mayor celebrates his profession, emphasizing class mobility and community spirit. The play explores themes of aspiration, identity, and societal roles within a vibrant urban backdrop.
Humorous
Romantic
Playful
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Shoemaker's Holiday by Thomas Dekker is celebrated for its lively depiction of Elizabethan London and its humor. Critics praise its vibrant characters, especially the charismatic shoemaker, Simon Eyre. However, some feel the play's plot can be convoluted or implausible at times. Overall, it's valued for its historical insight and comedic elements.
Who Should Read The Shoemaker's Holiday?
A reader who enjoys The Shoemaker's Holiday by Thomas Dekker would appreciate early modern English drama, humor, and social themes. Fans of Shakespeare's comedies or Jonson's satirical plays would likely enjoy the wit and character-driven plot. Ideal for those interested in Elizabethan culture and class dynamics.
The daughter of the Lord Mayor who is in love with Lacy, struggling with the limitations imposed by social class differences.
A nobleman who disguises himself as a shoemaker to avoid military service and pursue his love, Rose.
A journeyman shoemaker and veteran of the war, struggling with the impact of his service and devoted to his wife, Jane.
The father of Rose, determined to maintain social class distinctions and initially opposed to Rose's romantic choices.
The devoted wife of Ralph, left to fend for herself while he is at war, and subject to unwanted attention during his absence.
102
Play • Fiction
•
Drama•
Comedy & SatireLondon, England • 1590s
•
Social Class•
Gender Identity1599
Adult
16+ years
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