The Globe Theater and Elizabethan Theatre Vocabulary List

Soliloquy Noun A long, uninterrupted speech that is given by a character alone on stage.

Aside Noun An actor’s speech directed to the audience that is not supposed to be heard by the other characters onstage.

Monologue Noun A long, uninterrupted speech that is spoken in the presence of other characters.

Tragic Hero A great or virtuous character in a dramatic tragedy who is destined for downfall, suffering, and defeat.

Tragic Flaw Noun A weakness or limitation of a character resulting in the fall of the tragic hero.

Foil Noun A character that contrasts another character (usually the protagonist) in order to highlight particular qualities of the other character.

Hubris Noun Excessive pride or self-confidence (often resulting in a tragic flaw).

Yard Noun The open floor area in front of and around the stage. Poor patrons (groundlings) stood here to watch the show.

Galleries Plural Noun Three seating sections for wealthy patrons, who sat on wooden benches under a thatched roof.

Tiring House Noun The dressing and storage areas at the back of the stage. Actors can also enter and exit from this area.

“Heavens” Noun A canopy supported by pillars that protects the actors from sun and rain. It is painted like the sky, with stars and signs of the zodiac. Actors can be lowered from the ceiling by a rope.

“Hell” Noun A trapdoor in the floor of the stage. Actors can rise or descend through this door to the cellar area.

“Earth” Noun The main stage where the action takes place, especially outdoor scenes.

Balcony Noun The upper stage area, used mostly for bedroom and balcony scenes. Musicians or sound effects also came from this area.

Groundlings Plural Noun Poor people who stood to watch the play (4-6 hours), rain or shine. They would pay one penny to see the show, and would throw snacks and shout at the performers if upset.