Christopher Marlowe

Definition

Christopher Marlowe was an influential English playwright and poet, known for his contributions to the development of Elizabethan drama in the late 16th century. His works, characterized by their use of blank verse and complex characters, paved the way for later playwrights, particularly William Shakespeare. Marlowe's innovative storytelling techniques and themes of ambition, power, and tragedy significantly impacted the evolution of theater during this era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Christopher Marlowe was born in 1564 and died under mysterious circumstances in 1593, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a dramatist.
2. His most famous works include 'Doctor Faustus,' 'Tamburlaine,' and 'The Jew of Malta,' all showcasing his mastery of character development and poetic language.
3. Marlowe's use of blank verse was groundbreaking, allowing for more natural speech patterns and emotional depth in his characters compared to the previous rhymed verse.
4. He was a contemporary of William Shakespeare, with many scholars believing that Marlowe's innovations influenced Shakespeare's writing style and thematic choices.
5. Marlowe's life was marked by controversy, including allegations of espionage and his infamous death in a bar fight, which has led to various theories about his life and work.

Review Questions

• How did Christopher Marlowe’s use of blank verse change the landscape of English drama?
  • Marlowe’s introduction of blank verse transformed English drama by allowing for a more fluid and natural rhythm in dialogue. Unlike traditional rhymed verse, blank verse enabled characters to express complex emotions and ideas more realistically. This innovation not only enhanced character depth but also set a new standard for subsequent playwrights, including William Shakespeare, who would adopt this style in his own works.
• Discuss the significance of Marlowe’s themes of ambition and power in relation to the societal context of the Elizabethan era.
  • Marlowe’s exploration of ambition and power reflects the intense political climate of the Elizabethan era, characterized by issues of authority and individual aspiration. His protagonists often grapple with their desires for greatness, mirroring the anxieties and ambitions of society during a time when England was asserting itself on the global stage. This thematic focus not only made his plays resonate with contemporary audiences but also highlighted the moral dilemmas associated with unchecked ambition.
• Evaluate the impact of Christopher Marlowe’s life and mysterious death on the interpretation of his works and their place in theatrical history.
  • Marlowe's enigmatic life and untimely death have fueled intrigue and speculation regarding his influence on theater. His dramatic exit from life at a young age has led to interpretations that associate his works with themes of tragedy and existential inquiry. Scholars often examine how these elements might reflect Marlowe’s personal struggles with identity and societal expectations, enhancing our understanding of his contributions to theatrical history as both a writer who challenged norms and a figure shrouded in mystery.

Related terms

Blank Verse: A form of unrhymed poetry that is written in iambic pentameter, which became a prominent feature in English drama after Marlowe popularized it.

Theatrical Renaissance: The period of revival in art and culture in Europe, particularly in England, during the late 15th to early 17th centuries, marked by significant developments in theater.

Tragedy: A dramatic genre that deals with serious themes and often involves the downfall of a main character, exemplified in Marlowe's works like 'Doctor Faustus.'