Final answer:
The theater flourished during the Renaissance due to increased literacy rates, royal patronage, and the invention of the printing press.
Step-by-step explanation:
The theater flourished during the Renaissance due to several reasons:
- Increased literacy rates: The arrival of the printing press allowed for the mass production and distribution of books, which contributed to the rise in literacy rates among the population. This meant that more people were able to read plays and understand the performances.
- Royal patronage: Wealthy members of society, such as kings and queens, provided financial support to theaters and playwrights. This patronage allowed for the creation of new plays and the development of innovative staging techniques.
- Invention of the printing press: The printing press, invented by Johannes Gutenberg, made the reproduction of texts more efficient and affordable. This led to the dissemination of plays and other literary works, making them more accessible to a wider audience.