Christopher Marlowe

Definition

Christopher Marlowe was an influential English playwright and poet of the late 16th century, known for his innovative contributions to the development of English drama. His works, characterized by their blank verse and bold themes, laid the groundwork for later playwrights, particularly William Shakespeare. Marlowe's life was as dramatic as his plays, filled with controversy and intrigue, leading to his untimely death at a young age, which added to his legendary status in literary history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Christopher Marlowe is best known for his plays such as 'Doctor Faustus', 'Tamburlaine', and 'The Jew of Malta', which explore themes of ambition, power, and human limitation.
2. Marlowe was a contemporary of Shakespeare but died at the age of 29, just as Shakespeare was beginning to rise in prominence.
3. His use of blank verse was revolutionary, allowing for greater expression and depth in character dialogue compared to the traditional rhyme schemes used before him.
4. Marlowe's work often delves into dark and complex characters, showcasing the Renaissance fascination with the human condition and moral ambiguity.
5. His mysterious death in 1593 remains a subject of speculation and debate, fueling theories about espionage, murder, and his involvement with political intrigue.

Review Questions

• How did Christopher Marlowe's use of blank verse influence the development of English drama?
  • Christopher Marlowe's use of blank verse marked a significant shift in English drama by introducing a more naturalistic form of dialogue. This allowed characters to express complex emotions and thoughts more freely than traditional rhymed forms. His mastery of this technique influenced contemporaries like Shakespeare, who adopted and adapted blank verse to enhance their own storytelling and character development.
• Discuss the themes present in Marlowe's works and how they reflect the societal context of the English Renaissance.
  • Marlowe's works frequently explore themes such as ambition, power, and human limitations, reflecting the societal concerns of the English Renaissance. During this period, there was a strong focus on individualism and the potential for human achievement, but also an awareness of moral consequences. Plays like 'Doctor Faustus' exemplify this struggle between aspiration and hubris, mirroring the tensions within society about personal ambition versus ethical boundaries.
• Evaluate the impact of Christopher Marlowe’s life and mysterious death on his legacy within English literature.
  • Christopher Marlowe's brief yet impactful life contributed significantly to his legacy within English literature. His untimely death at 29 under suspicious circumstances added an air of mystery that fueled intrigue about his life and works. This blend of talent and tragedy not only elevated his status among contemporaries but also created a lasting mythos around him that influences how he is perceived today—as a pivotal figure who paved the way for future dramatists like Shakespeare while remaining shrouded in enigma.

Related terms

Blank Verse: A form of unrhymed poetry written in iambic pentameter, which became a significant characteristic of English dramatic literature, notably used by both Marlowe and Shakespeare.

Theatrical Collaboration: The practice of multiple playwrights working together on a single play, common during the Renaissance, which influenced the styles and themes of the time.

Tragedy: A dramatic genre that typically deals with serious themes and ends in disaster for the main characters; Marlowe is credited with elevating the tragedy genre in English theatre.