Mystery plays are a form of medieval drama that depict biblical stories and events. They were performed in public spaces, often during religious festivals, and aimed to educate the audience about Christian teachings. These plays were typically organized by local guilds and featured a series of short episodes, each focusing on different aspects of the Christian narrative. The term "mystery" comes from the word "mystère," which refers to the craft or trade of the guilds that produced them. Mystery plays were popular in Europe from the 10th to the 16th centuries and often included elaborate costumes and staging. They played a significant role in the development of theater and drama in the Western tradition.