AO3 (50%)

Question 1

Political context

Answer 1

• society obsessed with plotting and political intrigue
• catholism dangerous (secret ones)
• power corrupted
• reflect contemporary court life but neutralised by a Mediterranean setting

Question 2

Social context

Answer 2

• audience values wit and style
• concern with the social role of women
• witty and cynical remarks

Question 3

Biographical/ authorial context

Answer 3

• represents Mediterranean countries as deeply corrupted

- inclined to shock (interested in power and corruption)

Question 4

Theatrical context

Answer 4

• display and self conscious elegance (interiors, manners, dress and Lang)
• lives and tastes of the wealthy (realistic settings)
• high emotional tension (dark secrets)