Entertainment in the 16th century
British Entertainment in the 16th century included art, fencing, painting, the stocks and even executions. While the 16th century and early 17th century squarely fall into the Renaissance period in Europe, that period was not only one of scientific and cultural advance, but also involved the development of changing forms of entertainment – both for the masses and for the elite. Despite the great breadth of advancements in the arts during this time, the economic conditions of this period affected the types of entertainment available. There were three classes in society: A wealthy nobility, a merchant class,  and the peasantry, who were typically poor.