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Lope de VegaSpanish playwright, poet and novelist
Date of Birth: 25.11.1562
Country:  Spain |
Content:
Biography of Lope de Vega
Lope de Vega was a Spanish playwright, poet, and prose writer. He wrote at an incredibly fast pace, which resulted in an astonishingly large body of work. Some researchers estimate that he wrote around 1800 plays, while others believe the number is closer to 2000. Only 470 plays have survived to this day.
Early Life and Education
Born into a family of a tailor-goldsmith in Madrid, Lope de Vega managed to receive an excellent education at a Jesuit college and later at the university. He worked as a courtier for the aristocrats, served as a soldier, and participated in the campaign of the "Invincible Armada" to the shores of England. He married multiple times, had numerous mistresses, spent time in prison, and lived in exile.
Contributions to Theater
Lope de Vega made a significant impact on the world of theater. He authored the first play about Russia in the Western world, during a time when theater and plays were not yet established in Russia. The play, titled "The Great Moscow Prince," was a tragedy based on the events of the Time of Troubles. Throughout his career, Lope de Vega wrote plays on various themes and genres, and his works continue to be performed in theaters to this day.
Late Life and Legacy
Shortly before his death, Lope de Vega repented for his sins, both real and imagined, and embraced an ascetic lifestyle, essentially starving himself. Although he did not take his own work very seriously and paid little attention to preserving his plays in printed or manuscript form, Lope de Vega's plays remain a vital part of theatrical repertoire. His contributions to Spanish literature and drama are celebrated, and his influence can still be seen in the theater world today.
