The Provocation of A Game at Chess : In Search of the True Target of Thomas Middleton's Satirical Comedy

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  • 『チェス・ゲーム』の問題性 : トマス・ミドルトンの諷刺喜劇の真の標的を求めて
  • チェス ゲーム ノ モンダイセイ トマス ミドルトン ノ フウシキゲキ ノ シン ノ ヒョウテキ オ モトメテ

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Abstract

Thomas Middleton's A Game at Chess provoked a scandal when it was first performed at the Globe Theatre in 1624. Due to the severe sarcasm it directed against Count Gondomar, former Spanish ambassador, and Catholic Spain, the play was banned by the Privy Council after 9 consecutive performances because it was considered that the King's Men had flouted the commandment that no contemporary Christian monarchs should be represented on stage. It seems certain that there were much more serious reasons why this play would have offended James I, who ordered an investigation into the offensive performances with the intent of making a severe example of the offenders. After strict interrogations, the Master of Revels and individual actors were found not guilty. After being given a stern warning, the King's Men were ordered to pay a light fine, and only Middleton was jailed in the Fleet prison. The decisions of the Privy Council appeared to be politically motivated and unfair. However, careful reading of the comedy reveals that the playwright portrayed James I as having innocent foolishness, lack of confidence, lacking both leadership and insight into human nature, and many other weaknesses as a king, in comparison with the Machiavellian Count Gondmar's superb political ability, sharp insight and brilliant tactics. There can be no doubt that the members of the Privy Council realized that Middleton's satire was focused not only on Spain but also on the King of England and his court. This would seem to explain why he received the heaviest sentence. Although this was an unfortunate outcome for him, when viewed from another angle, the punishment was a positive evaluation of his sharp satirical comedy, and therefore can be considered a "just reward" for his brilliant talent and sharp insight into human nature.

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