Comparing the Brilliance of Ben Jonson and Christopher Marlowe

When discussing the great playwrights of the Elizabethan era, the names Ben Jonson and Christopher Marlowe often come up in conversation. This article delves into a detailed comparison between these two giants of English drama, examining their styles, impact, and legacy. While there is no definitive answer to who was the greater playwright, this exploration can help illuminate the unique contributions each made to the landscape of English literature.

Diving into That Era

Christopher Marlowe (1564-1593) is known as the 'inventor' of blank verse, which made his plays more accessible to audiences and influenced the works of later playwrights, including William Shakespeare. His plays, such as Doctor Faustus, Tamburlaine, and The Jew of Malta, are celebrated for their complex characters and ambitious themes. Marlowe's protagonists often embody the Renaissance spirit, marked by intelligence, ambition, and ultimately tragic endings.

One of Marlowe's most notable works, Doctor Faustus, features a character who sells his soul to the devil in exchange for knowledge. This play is also famous for the iconic line, 'Was this the face that launched a thousand ships,' which encapsulates the allure and perceived grandeur of ancient Greek culture. The Jew of Malta is another masterpiece, known for its sharp social commentary.

Ben Jonson: The Master of Comedy and Satire

Ben Jonson (1572-1637) is celebrated for his mastery of comedy and satire. His plays, such as Volpone, The Alchemist, and Bartholomew Fair, are marked by his sharp wit and insightful social commentary. His poetry is also remarkable, and he wrote several notable works, including Epicoene atau the Silent Woman.

In his poem 'On Spies,' Jonson critiques spies in a biting manner, highlighting their fleeting and base existence. His poem 'To Celia' showcases his poetic prowess with its romantic and playful verses. In tribute to Shakespeare, Jonson wrote, 'To the Memory of My Beloved the Author, Mr. William Shakespeare,' which outlines the lasting impact of Shakespeare's works and compares Jonson's to lesser poets of the time.

Comparing Their Impact and Influence

The impact of both Marlowe and Jonson on theatre is significant. Marlowe's innovations in dramatic form and exploration of the human psyche had a lasting influence on tragedy, while Jonson's comedic prowess and satirical approach shaped the development of English comedy.

Shakespeare himself borrowed from both writers. He incorporated Marlowe's dramatic intensity and Jonson's character-driven narratives. This shows the importance of both Marlowe and Jonson to the development of English literature. Both playwrights are essential to the landscape of English literature, and their legacies continue to resonate today.

Personal Preferences and Appreciation

While there is no objective answer to who was the greater playwright, personal preferences play a significant role. Some people prefer the poetic depths and tragic grandeur of Marlowe, while others appreciate Jonson's wit and social commentary. Personally, I prefer Jonson based on what I've read. I find his poetry to be closer to Shakespeare, whom Jonson seemed to deeply admire. Shakespeare himself is a towering figure, and both Marlowe and Jonson influenced his works in significant ways.

Here are some of my favorite lines from both playwrights:

Christopher Marlowe

“Accursed be he that first invented war!” Pelts his enemies with arrows like a storm.
- Tamburlaine the Great, Part I. II. iv.

“There is no sin but ignorance.” Contract not with the devil, it will only lead to disaster.
- The Jew of Malta, Prologue.

“Excess of wealth is cause of covetousness.” The lust for money is fueled by greed.
- The Jew of Malta, I.ii.

“Above our life we love a steadfast friend.” In times of need, a true friend is invaluable.
- Hero and Leander, l. 79.

“Was this the face that launched a thousand ships And burnt the topless towers of Troy?” A sensual and dramatic opening line from Doctor Faustus.”

Ben Jonson

“Spies you are lights in state, but of base stuff You when you’ve burnt yourselves down to the snuff Stink and are thrown away. End fair enough.”
- 'On Spies'

“Drink to me only with thine eyes, And I will pledge with mine.
- 'Song: To Celia'

“To draw no envy, Shakespeare on thy name Am I thus ample to thy book and fame While I confess thy writings to be such As neither man nor muse can praise too much.”
- 'To the Memory of My Beloved, the Author, Mr. William Shakespeare'

“Thou art a monument without a tomb And art alive still while thy book doth live And we have wits to read and praise to give.”
- 'To the Memory of My Beloved, the Author, Mr. William Shakespeare'

“Soul of the age! The applause, delight, The wonder of our stage! Thou art not for the age only, but for all time!”
- 'To the Memory of My Beloved, the Author, Mr. William Shakespeare'

Conclusion

While the question of which playwright is the greatest is subjective, both Marlowe and Jonson are indispensable to the history of English drama. Marlowe's deep tragedies and exploration of the human condition continue to captivate readers, while Jonson's comedies and satires offer a scathing yet insightful glimpse into Elizabethan society. Ultimately, these two playwrights have left a lasting imprint on English literature, and their works are as relevant today as they were during their time.

Final Thought

So whether you prefer the poignant tragedies of Marlowe or the witty comedies of Jonson, both are worthy of study and admiration. Both playwrights have left an indelible mark on the literary landscape, and their works continue to entertain, inspire, and provoke thought.

Additional Resources

Wikipedia on Christopher Marlowe Wikipedia on Ben Jonson Complete Works of Ben Jonson Complete Works of Christopher Marlowe