How did English drama originally develop?

The development of English drama can be traced back to its roots in religious rituals. Early theatrical performances were often closely tied to religious ceremonies, particularly within the Christian tradition. These performances, known as mystery plays or miracle plays, dramatized biblical stories and the lives of saints, aiming to educate the audience about religious beliefs and moral lessons.

This connection to the church and ritual provided not only a thematic foundation for the plays but also a structure through which the community gathered, connecting people through shared belief and experience. As this form of drama evolved, it began to incorporate more secular themes and eventually led to the diverse types of drama we see today, but its origins lie firmly in those early religious practices.