Cycle plays, also known as mystery plays, are a series of medieval dramas that depict biblical stories from Creation to the Last Judgment, performed as part of religious festivals. Emerging in the 14th and 15th centuries, cycle plays were performed by laypeople and organized by city guilds, serving both as religious instruction and community entertainment.

Cycle Plays

Mystery plays are a form of medieval drama that originated in the 10th century and became popular in the 15th century, depicting biblical stories and religious themes. They were performed by guilds in public spaces, serving both as entertainment and as a means of religious instruction for the largely illiterate population.

Mystery Plays

Medieval dramas

Biblical Stories

Creation refers to the act of bringing something into existence, often implying a process of innovation, imagination, or divine intervention. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from art and literature to science and theology, each exploring different dimensions of how new entities or ideas come to be.

Creation

Last Judgment

Religious festivals are cultural and spiritual events that commemorate significant historical, mythical, or seasonal occurrences within a faith tradition, fostering a sense of community and shared identity among adherents. They often involve rituals, ceremonies, and customs that reflect the beliefs and values of the religion, serving as a means of cultural transmission and spiritual renewal.

Religious Festivals

14th Century

15th century

Laypeople

City guilds

Religious instruction is when people learn about different beliefs and stories that some people think are very important. It's like learning about different kinds of families and what makes them happy and special.

Concepts

Your Lessons