During Renaissance, the lute was the most popular instrument. It became the symbol of the magic and power of music and was the instrument of kings and queens. The lute was heard in the theatre in the Shakespeare's plays, but it was also heard by common people in pubs and on street corners.
It originated from the Arabic Oud which came into Europe during the Crusades. It has a pear-shaped body and a rounded back resembling todays guitar.