Which figure introduced Court Masques during the early 16th century?

The introduction of Court Masques during the early 16th century is attributed to Henry VIII. He was instrumental in popularizing this theatrical form that combined poetry, music, and dance to celebrate royal occasions and display nobility and grandeur. Court Masques were elaborate productions that often featured allegorical themes, and they were performed in the royal court, inviting participation from both the nobility and professional actors.

Henry VIII’s reign marked a significant period in the development of English theatre, and his enthusiasm for spectacles and pageantry laid the groundwork for this art form, making it a crucial aspect of cultural life in the Tudor court. The Court Masque evolved and continued to flourish later, reaching its peak during the reign of Charles I, but the seeds of these performances were firmly planted during Henry VIII's time.