Spanish Baroque theatre flourished during the 17th century, characterized by its elaborate staging and rich language. It emerged alongside the broader Baroque artistic movement, emphasizing emotional expression and dramatic storytelling. The theatre often featured themes of honor, love, and social issues, reflecting the complexities of Spanish society at the time. Key figures in this movement included playwrights like Lope de Vega and Tirso de Molina, who created works that combined comedy and tragedy. The use of corrales de comedias, open-air theatres, allowed for vibrant performances that attracted diverse audiences. This period laid the foundation for modern Spanish theatre.