The Love of the Nightingale: Historical Context

Background of the Playwright: Timberlake Wertenbaker

Born in New York, in 1951, but raised in the Basque region of France.
Studied literature at Pembroke College, Cambridge.
Her works are well-known for questioning societal norms and exploring culture clashes.

Greek Mythology

The Love of the Nightingale is a re-interpretation of an ancient Greek myth told by Ovid.
The original story ended in death, but Wertenbaker chose to transform the protagonists into birds as symbols of their suffering.
The importance of Greek mythology in literature and drama cannot be underestimated - many ancient stories explore universal themes that are still relevant today.

Historical Era

The play was penned down in the late 20th-century, specifically in 1989.
Feminism, awareness of sexual violence, and the questioning of social constructs were rising during this period.
The play, therefore, may be seen as Wertenbaker’s commentary on these issues as she reinterprets a centuries-old tale through a contemporary lens.

Greek Tragedy Influence

Wertenbaker’s play draws heavily from the conventions of Greek tragedy.
In traditional Greek theatre, a chorus would often present the narrative - a technique Wertenbaker employs in her play.

Production History

Premiered in 1988 by the Royal Shakespeare Company.
The play became globally renowned and received several subsequent productions.
Despite it being the 21st century, the themes in the play continue to resonate which highlights the enduring relevance of the play.

The Love of the Nightingale and Feminism

Wertenbaker’s play can be read as a feminist text, where she rebukes the patriarchy and its actions.
Philomele’s rape highlights the brutality of patriarchal power and the silencing of women’s voices.
The transformation of the protagonists into birds may be seen as a desire to flee from societal constraints enforced by a male-dominated society.
The play actively challenges the stereotype of women as passive subservient beings, and encourages the audience to do the same.