Philip Massinger Quotes

A collection of quotes by Philip Massinger.

Philip Massinger (1583-1640) was an English dramatist during the Jacobean era. He was born in Salisbury, Wiltshire, England, but little is known about his early life. Massinger is believed to have attended Oxford University, although there is no concrete evidence to support this claim.

Massinger began his writing career as a collaborator, working with John Fletcher and, later, Thomas Dekker. Together, they created several successful plays for the renowned King's Men theater company in London. However, Massinger's true talent shone when he started writing on his own.

He became known for his skillful portrayal of complex characters, exploration of moral themes, and his ability to blend tragedy and comedy in his works. Massinger's plays often tackled social issues, political intrigue, and conflicts of conscience. His works include "The Roman Actor," "A New Way to Pay Old Debts," and "The City Madam," which were highly praised during his time.

Despite his unquestionable talent, Massinger faced financial struggles throughout his career. He received patronage from wealthy individuals and noble families, including the Earl of Pembroke, but he never achieved the same level of success as some of his contemporaries.

Philip Massinger's work had a significant influence on later playwrights, such as John Webster and Richard Brinsley Sheridan. He is regarded as a prominent figure in English Renaissance drama. Massinger passed away in March 1640, and his plays continue to be studied and performed to this day.