In order to construct the new Globe Theatre, it was necessary to first understand the method in which the original theatre was constructed. For this purpose, master builder Peter McCurdy was brought into the project. Timber frame construction in the late 1500's and early 1600's was completed in phases. Payment was usually made at the completion of each phase. The following is an outline of the typical procedure:
- Timbers made (chewn, squared, and jointed)
- Timbers transported to site and raised (erected)
- Frame set up with joints, rafters, etc.
- Finishing work (laith and plaster, or joiner's work)
Dimensioning was based on the medieval ad quadratum method in which the ratio of width to wall is 1 to radical 2, as described in the contracts for the Fortune. The original Globe Theatre was constructed in this manner with one exception. The first step, creation of the timbers, had already been completed, since the theatre was made from the materials of The Theatre. However, it was still necessary to make sure that the correct timber was placed in the correct location when the theatre was put up, since no two timbers are ever exactly alike, which is probably why Peter Streete was needed.
Once the timbers have been formed, the theatre is put together without the use of nails, screws or glue. Wooden pegs are employed to hold together the timbers (Figure 25).
Figure 25: Wall plate / tie beam junction (Mulryne, 113)
(Show ISGC video documentary of construction of Globe, Reconstruction Of The Globe, approximate running time, 10 min)
Video can be purchased at a cost of 13 pounds through the ISGC by contacting the following :
Attn. : Mail Order
Shakespear's Globe
New Globe Walk, Bankside
Southwark
London, SE1 9DT
England
Or fax 0171-902-1515.
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| Lesson 5.3 |
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Lesson 5.5 |