UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM · UNITED KINGDOM
Earning a Living as an Author in Early Modern England: The Case of Anthony Munday
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
—
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Over 80 works producedProlific Output
- Career spanning over 50 yearsLongevity
- Case study of rising middling classesSocial Context
- Engaged with political and religious spheresHistorical Relevance
- Worked in theatre and civic pageantryDiverse Contributions
This doctoral dissertation examines the life and career of Anthony Munday (1560-1633), a prolific writer in Tudor/Stuart England. Over a career spanning more than fifty years, Munday produced over eighty works, including plays, pamphlets, translations, and historical accounts. Scholars have described him in various ways, from "our best plotter" to "literary hack." This research argues that Munday serves as a crucial case study for understanding the rising middling classes in early modern England. The study emphasizes a re-examination of primary sources to understand Munday's life and literary output in its totality, rather than focusing on isolated aspects. By analyzing his career chronologically and considering his consistent work for commercial gain, the dissertation aims to present a comprehensive picture of a professional writer who was also a member of the upwardly mobile, middling social strata. The research explores Munday's engagement with political and religious currents of his time, his work in the professional theatre, and his contributions to civic pageantry. It positions Munday not just as a writer, but as a reflection of the societal shifts, increasing literacy, and developing economy of Renaissance England.
Curriculum
This dissertation is structured to provide a comprehensive analysis of Anthony Munday's life and work. The chapters systematically explore different phases and aspects of his career, from his early life and education to his extensive literary production and social context.
- Chapter 1: Introduction
- The Problem and Thesis
- Munday's Place in Scholarship
- Review of Literature (Primary and Secondary Sources)
- Chapter 2: 1553-1579
- Munday's Birth and Childhood
- The "Lost Years" (1571-1576)
- Apprenticeship (1576-1578)
- Chapter 3: The Political Munday, 1577-1612
- Munday's Political and Religious Engagements
- The Rome Trip and Return to England
- Government and Crown Interactions
- The Edmund Campion Affair and the Church of England
- Chapter 4: Writing for the Professional Theatre
- Munday and the Stage: Acting and Early Writing
- Analysis of Key Plays (Fedele and Fortunio, John a Kent, Sir Thomas More, Huntingdon Plays)
- Chapter 5: Anthony Munday and the City of London
- Civic Pageantry and Lord Mayor's Pageants
- Analysis of Specific Pageants
- Munday's Connection to Stow's Survey
- Chapter 6: Conclusions
- Summary of Findings and Future Research Directions
Careers
The career of Anthony Munday demonstrates the evolving opportunities for writers in early modern England, particularly those from the middling classes. His work across various genres and his engagement with both commercial and civic spheres highlight the potential for a professional literary career. His success in theatre, pageantry, and print suggests pathways for individuals with strong writing skills and an understanding of market demands. Munday's life shows that a career in writing could lead to social mobility and a recognized place within society.
- Author
- Playwright
- Pamphleteer
- Translator
- Historian
- Spy (as suggested by some scholars)
- Civic Pageant Writer
Frequently asked questions
- What is the degree level of this programme?
- This programme is a completed doctoral dissertation, specifically a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree.
- What career paths could this research inform?
- The study of Anthony Munday's career suggests pathways in writing, including roles as an Author, Playwright, Pamphleteer, Translator, and Historian, highlighting potential for professional literary careers.
- What is the duration of this programme?
- This programme refers to a dissertation submitted in May 2006, meaning it is a historical record of a completed doctoral study rather than an ongoing programme with a specified duration.
- Are there any scholarships available for this programme?
- Scholarship information is not available as this is a completed dissertation from 2006 and not a current programme offering.
Entry requirements
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)Dissertation submitted to the Graduate College of Bowling Green State University, May 2006.
This is a doctoral dissertation completed in 2006 and does not represent current program admission requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Tuition and living cost information is not available as this is a completed dissertation from 2006.
How to apply
1. Conduct ResearchUndertake comprehensive research on the chosen topic, Anthony Munday, in the context of early modern English authorship and society.
2. Write DissertationDevelop and write the dissertation, organized into chapters covering introduction, historical periods, specific aspects of the subject's life and work, and conclusions.
3. Adhere to Formatting GuidelinesEnsure the dissertation follows the specific formatting and structural requirements set by the Graduate College.
4. Form Dissertation CommitteeAssemble a committee of faculty members, including an advisor, to guide and approve the research and writing process.
5. Submit for ExaminationSubmit the completed dissertation to the Graduate College for review and potential defense.
Frequently asked questions
What is the degree level of this programme?
+
This programme is a completed doctoral dissertation, specifically a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree.
What career paths could this research inform?
+
The study of Anthony Munday's career suggests pathways in writing, including roles as an Author, Playwright, Pamphleteer, Translator, and Historian, highlighting potential for professional literary careers.
What is the duration of this programme?
+
This programme refers to a dissertation submitted in May 2006, meaning it is a historical record of a completed doctoral study rather than an ongoing programme with a specified duration.
Are there any scholarships available for this programme?
+
Scholarship information is not available as this is a completed dissertation from 2006 and not a current programme offering.