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**Cultural Context - 17th century restoration comedy**  Before Restoration Comedy became a prominent part of society's leisure activities, England was primarily ruled by Anglican puritans. This was a time of restrained morals and control. After 18 years of puritan rule the theatre was re-opened in 1660 signalling the rebirth of English dramatic arts. Restoration comedy is reknowned for its explicit satirical content which was encouraged buy the notorious English rake King Charles II and the hedonistic aristocrats of his court. The comedies //The Way of the World// by William Congrieve and //The Rover// by Aphra Behn reflected the atmosphere at court and celebreated the lifestyle of sexual intrege and conquest. This period introduced the first female actors and playwrights, including Aphra Behn. Before puritan rule female characters had been played by young boys in the Elizabethan theatres of Shakepreare's time. The novelty of having women on stage created something of a stir, but for the most part the reaction of the public was positive. Many of the new actresses were women who intentionally used their position to achieve liaisons with titled gentlemen and thus increase their meager income. One of the most famous was of course Nell Gwyn, who became the mistress of Charles II. The socially diverse audience consisted of aristocrats, their servants and a particulary substantial middle class. These audiences were attracted to the theatre due to the satirical, busy scripts, the introduction of female actors and the development of the celebrity.    The theatre became a fashionable centre, the place to see fashionable people and to be seen. The Restoration audience was a loud and rowdy audience rising from seats and moving about the theatre whenever they so desired and calling out to the actors on stage, who would return the favour by insulting them with their wit. Sarah Murphy

This is all great, Sarah. And well written. But now I would like you to go back to the question and relate the information you have stated back to it. This will help you to find a way to summarise your point and keep it relevant. Ms F