Thomas Killigrew

Thomas Killigrew (7 February 1612 – 19 March 1683) was an English dramatist and theatre manager. He was a witty, dissolute figure at the court of King Charles II of England.

Early Life and Education

Killigrew was born in London, England, in 1612. He was the eldest son of Sir Robert Killigrew, a courtier and diplomat. Killigrew was educated at Westminster School and Christ Church, Oxford.

Career

After leaving Oxford, Killigrew traveled to France and Italy. He returned to England in 1636 and began to write plays. His first play, The Parson's Wedding, was produced in 1641.

During the English Civil War, Killigrew was a supporter of King Charles I. He was captured by the Parliamentarians in 1643 and was imprisoned in the Tower of London for two years. After his release, Killigrew fled to France, where he lived until the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660.

After the Restoration, Killigrew was appointed Master of the Revels by King Charles II. He was also granted a patent to build a new theater, which he named the Drury Lane Theatre. The Drury Lane Theatre was the first purpose-built theater in England since the Puritan Revolution.

Killigrew continued to write plays throughout the Restoration period. His most famous plays include The Parson's Wedding (1641), The Prisoners (1663), and The Committee-Man (1665).

Notable Works

Some of Killigrew's most notable works include:

• The Parson's Wedding (1641)
• The Prisoners (1663)
• The Committee-Man (1665)
• The Princess (1667)
• The Humorists (1667)
• Monsieur Thomas (1668)
• Love in a Tub (1668)
• The Pilgrim (1668)
• The Siege of Babylon (1669)
• The Four Lovers (1671)
• The Lady of the Manor (1672)

Philosophy

Killigrew's philosophy was reflected in his plays. His plays are full of wit, humor, and satire. He also had a knack for creating memorable characters and settings. His plays often explore themes of love, marriage, and social class.

Death and Legacy

Killigrew died in London, England, in 1683. He is remembered as one of the leading playwrights of the Restoration period. His plays were popular with audiences and critics alike, and he helped to establish the Restoration theater as a major force in English culture.

Interesting Facts About Thomas Killigrew

• Killigrew was a close friend of King Charles II. He was known for his wit and his ability to make the king laugh.
• Killigrew was a controversial figure. He was accused of being a libertine and a drunkard. However, he was also admired for his intelligence and his talent as a playwright.
• Killigrew was the father of the actress Nell Gwynne. Gwynne was one of the most popular actresses of the Restoration period, and she was known for her beauty and her vivacious personality.

Conclusion

Thomas Killigrew was a talented playwright and a colorful figure in the English court. His plays were popular with audiences and critics alike, and he helped to establish the Restoration theater as a major force in English culture.