What essential role did guilds play in preserving theatrical scripts?

Guilds played a crucial role in preserving theatrical scripts primarily by protecting them from alterations. During the period when guilds were influential in theater, there was a heightened concern for maintaining the authenticity and integrity of scripts. By controlling the production process and employing specific protocols, guilds ensured that scripts were followed closely and not subject to arbitrary changes by individual performers or directors. This preservation was vital for not only maintaining the original intent of the playwright but also for ensuring consistency across performances and safeguarding the cultural heritage embedded within these works.

In contrast, while other options might touch on aspects of theater, they do not address the preservation of scripts in the same way. The dictation of performance style and arranging of performances pertain to different facets of production. Writing new scripts would involve creativity and innovation rather than preservation, which is the core function attributed to guilds in this context.