Medieval drama based on biblical stories usually had a strong moral and spiritual focus. They were performed in religious festivals or in churchyards. The stories were carefully selected to emphasize key religious teachings such as the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, the redemption through Christ's sacrifice, and the hope of salvation. These dramas helped to bring the Bible to life for the people of the Middle Ages, as they could see and hear the stories being enacted rather than just listening to sermons.
The staging was rather simple yet symbolic. For example, the use of minimal props to represent different elements from the biblical stories. The characters were often types rather than fully developed individuals, like the figure of Christ being portrayed as a symbol of salvation. And the language used was a mix of the vernacular and some religious Latin phrases to make it accessible to the common people while maintaining a sense of religious solemnity.
These dramas also served as a form of community bonding. People gathered to watch them, which created a sense of unity among the community members. Moreover, it educated the masses about the Bible in an engaging way, as compared to just reading religious texts which was difficult for most people due to illiteracy.
Many of them use religious symbolism. Just as in the Bible there are symbols like the cross representing salvation, in these novels there could be similar symbols. For example, a white dove might represent peace or the presence of God. These symbols add depth to the story and connect it to the religious source material.
One characteristic is that they often carry strong moral and religious teachings. Since they are based on biblical stories, they can convey the values and lessons within the Bible. For example, they might show the concept of redemption or the power of faith through the story they are based on.
Often, they involve real historical figures like kings, queens, knights. For example, in the story of King Arthur, if we consider the possible true - story elements, it would have real - life feudal lords and warriors. These stories usually show the social hierarchy of the time, with peasants at the bottom and nobles at the top.
They often had a strong moral and religious message. The characters were typically drawn from the Bible, like Adam and Eve. The settings were simple, usually just a platform or an open area in a town. Costumes were basic but symbolic, representing the different biblical figures.
Biblical fiction stories often blend historical and religious elements. They usually take a story or character from the Bible and expand on it. For example, they might add more details to a well - known parable or give a backstory to a minor character.
One characteristic is the use of symbolism. In medieval stories, things like swords or castles can symbolize power or safety. Another is the focus on the feudal system. Lords, vassals, and peasants are often part of the story's setting or plot. And the language used in good medieval stories can be archaic and formal, which adds to the atmosphere of the time. For example, the use of Middle English in some of Chaucer's works.
Medieval gay stories often had to be somewhat veiled. Since homosexuality was not openly accepted in the medieval era, these stories might use symbols or subtler language. For example, deep friendships between male characters that seemed to go beyond the norm of the time could be a way of hinting at same - sex attraction.
Medieval erotic stories may often feature a hierarchical structure in relationships. Given the feudal society of the time, there could be stories involving lords and ladies, or knights and their paramours. The power dynamics in these relationships could play a significant role in the erotic aspect of the story. For example, a knight's love for a noble lady might be influenced by her social status and the power she holds. Moreover, the settings in these stories are usually medieval - castles, manors, and the like.
They often have a sense of authenticity. Since they are based on real events, the settings, the characters' situations, and sometimes even the dialogues can feel very real. For example, in 'Schindler's List', the portrayal of the historical context of the Holocaust is extremely vivid.