* Early Origins: English drama actually developed from religious performances. Medieval drama, the earliest form, was heavily influenced by the Church. Plays like the Mystery Plays and Miracle Plays dramatized biblical stories and the lives of saints, performed in and around churches.
* Influence of the Church: The Church played a significant role in shaping early English drama. It provided funding, venues, and even some playwrights. The Church's influence can be seen in the themes, characters, and symbolism of these plays.
* Rise of Secular Drama: However, the transition to secular drama was gradual. As drama evolved, plays started dealing with more worldly themes, often with humorous and satirical elements. The rise of the Renaissance and the increasing influence of humanism further shifted the focus away from purely religious themes.
* Coexistence: While secular drama gained ground, religious plays continued to be performed, albeit with less frequency. Even some secular plays included religious elements, showing the enduring influence of the Church.
Therefore, it's more accurate to say that English drama has both religious and secular roots. The early forms were heavily influenced by religion, but as the tradition evolved, secular themes and perspectives gained prominence, ultimately paving the way for the diverse and multifaceted English drama we know today.