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.