Christopher Marlowe as a Dramatist.

 

Christopher Marlowe as a Dramatist.

Christopher Marlowe is a prominent figure in English literature and drama, often referred to as one of the most important playwrights of the Elizabethan era. His works are still studied and performed to this day, nearly four centuries after his death. Marlowe's contributions to English drama and his influence on later writers cannot be overstated. In this article, we will explore Marlowe's life, his works, and his impact on English drama.

Early Life

Christopher Marlowe was born in Canterbury, England, in 1564, the same year as William Shakespeare. Marlowe was the son of a shoemaker, and he grew up in relative poverty. However, he showed a remarkable aptitude for learning, and he was awarded a scholarship to King's School in Canterbury. After completing his education at King's School, Marlowe was awarded a scholarship to Cambridge University, where he studied for six years.

During his time at Cambridge, Marlowe studied classics and theology, but he also developed an interest in drama. He began writing plays while at university, and his first play, "Dido, Queen of Carthage," was performed by the Children of the Chapel, a group of child actors, in 1587. This play was well-received, and it marked the beginning of Marlowe's career as a playwright.

Works

Marlowe's most famous works are his plays, which include "Tamburlaine the Great," "Doctor Faustus," "The Jew of Malta," and "Edward II." These plays are notable for their powerful characters, their vivid language, and their themes of ambition, power, and morality.

"Tamburlaine the Great" is a two-part play about a Scythian shepherd who rises to power and becomes a conqueror. The play is known for its bold language and its portrayal of Tamburlaine as a larger-than-life figure who defies the gods themselves. "Doctor Faustus" is a play about a man who sells his soul to the devil in exchange for knowledge and power. The play is known for its exploration of the limits of human knowledge and its portrayal of Faustus as a tragic figure who is ultimately undone by his own ambition.

"The Jew of Malta" is a play about a Jewish merchant named Barabas, who seeks revenge against the Christians who have wronged him. The play is known for its portrayal of Barabas as a cunning and ruthless character who will stop at nothing to achieve his goals. "Edward II" is a play about the downfall of King Edward II, who is deposed and ultimately murdered by his enemies. The play is known for its portrayal of Edward as a weak and indecisive ruler who is undone by his own flaws.

Impact

Marlowe's impact on English drama cannot be overstated. His plays were groundbreaking in their use of language, their portrayal of powerful and complex characters, and their exploration of themes of ambition, power, and morality. Marlowe's influence can be seen in the works of later playwrights such as Shakespeare, who was heavily influenced by Marlowe's use of blank verse.

Marlowe's influence can also be seen in the development of the English language itself. Marlowe was one of the first writers to use blank verse, which became a standard form of English poetry and drama. Marlowe's use of blank verse helped to establish English as a language that was capable of producing great works of literature and drama.

Conclusion;

In conclusion, Christopher Marlowe was a remarkable dramatist whose works continue to be studied and performed to this day. His plays are notable for their powerful characters, their vivid language, and their exploration of themes of ambition, power, and morality