I hate myself for even skimming that terrible think piece. Could we not argue that Shakespeare's company did in fact receive a form of government grant through royal patronage????
Absolutely! I've been looking back at the King's Men documents for founding principles, and there is a distinct "not only is this personally my jam, but also a public good" flavor.
i.e. make the plays "for the recreation of our loving subjects as for our solace and pleasure when we shall think good to see them..."
I hate myself for even skimming that terrible think piece. Could we not argue that Shakespeare's company did in fact receive a form of government grant through royal patronage????
Absolutely! I've been looking back at the King's Men documents for founding principles, and there is a distinct "not only is this personally my jam, but also a public good" flavor.
i.e. make the plays "for the recreation of our loving subjects as for our solace and pleasure when we shall think good to see them..."
https://shakespearedocumented.folger.edu/resource/document/king-james-establishes-kings-men-warrant-under-privy-seal