Imprisonment and Escape to France
Poet involved
What happened
In 1641, Sir William Davenant was captured and imprisoned due to his royalist activities during the English Civil War. Following his imprisonment, he managed to escape to France, where he continued to write and serve Queen Henrietta Maria in exile. This event marked a significant turning point in Davenant's life, as he navigated the complexities of loyalty and artistic expression during a tumultuous period in English history. His experiences in France would later influence his work in the theatre upon his return to England.
Literary impact
His time in France allowed Davenant to develop his ideas about theatrical reform and continue working on 'Gondibert.' The experience of exile and the influence of French culture enriched his writing, leading to a more sophisticated and cosmopolitan style in his poetry and plays.
Source: Wikipedia
