Comedia nueva is a theatrical genre that emerged in Spain during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. It represents a shift from the traditional comedia to a more modern form of drama, incorporating elements of realism, complex characters, and diverse themes. This genre often blended tragedy and comedy, reflecting the complexities of human experience. Key figures in the development of comedia nueva include playwrights like Lope de Vega and Tirso de Molina. Their works emphasized the importance of character development and social commentary, moving away from the rigid structures of earlier plays. This evolution laid the groundwork for the Spanish Golden Age of theater.