Shakespearean Flags: What Did a White Flag Mean?

What did a white flag indicate in Shakespeare's time?

Flags advertised plays in Shakespeare's time. What did a white flag mean?

Answer:

In Shakespeare's time, a white flag indicated a comedy play.

During Shakespeare's era, the use of flags to advertise plays was a common practice. Each color of the flag represented a different genre of play, helping the audience understand the type of performance they were about to see. In this context, a white flag specifically signified a comedy play.

Comedy plays in Shakespeare's time were known for their light-hearted and humorous nature. They often featured elements such as mistaken identities, misunderstandings, and witty dialogue. Comedies typically ended on a happy note, providing entertainment and joy to the audience.

Understanding the significance of the white flag would have allowed theatergoers in Shakespeare's time to have a better idea of what to expect from the performance they were attending. It added an element of anticipation and excitement, setting the tone for an evening of laughter and enjoyment.