Abstract:On january 18 1562, Gorboduc, an historical play by Norton and Sackville, is performed before Queen Elizabeth I. The monarch’s body is at the time one of an unmarried woman, causing various debates amongst politicians. The play uses a range of theatrical devices (pantomime, action, chorus) in order to put on stage a plural royal body, exposing new thoughts on inheritance, royal blood and natural power, and therefore exploring the paradoxical state of a complex and unique body.
