The Controversy: Christopher Marlowe and His Literary Works

The English Renaissance period in the 16th century not only saw the emergence of towering figures like William Shakespeare, but also provided fertile ground for other prolific writers. Among these, the work of Christopher Marlowe has been a subject of enduring debate among literary scholars. Did Christopher Marlowe, the poetic genius credited with numerous significant literary works, truly write what has been attributed to him? This article aims to delve into the controversy surrounding Marlowe's authorship and explore the historical implications of this debate.

The Life of Christopher Marlowe

Christopher Marlowe was born on February 26, 1564, in Canterbury, England. He showed remarkable academic prowess, attending both King's School, Canterbury, and Corpus Christi College, Cambridge University. However, Marlowe was not only a scholar but also a man of many talents, including theater, poetry, and even the black arts, as evidence suggests he was spied on by the Elizabethan government due to rumored involvement in espionage.

The Authorship Controversy

The authorship controversy surrounding Marlowe began after his death in 1593. While many works were attributed to him, some scholars began to question whether he could have produced all of these. The argument largely revolves around the complexity and breadth of the works attributed to Marlowe, suggesting a collaborative effort or alternative authorship.

The main reasons for doubt include:

The rapid increase in Marlowe's poetic output shortly after his return from the university in 1589, The lack of definitive information about his whereabouts and activities during his travels in Europe, and His untimely death during a supposed tavern brawl, which some argue was fabricated.

These and other points of contention have led some scholars to propose alternative authors for certain works, such as Edward de Vere, 17th Earl of Oxford. Nevertheless, the overwhelming majority of academics still maintain that Christopher Marlowe was indeed the true author of his works, citing his known abilities and the testimony of colleagues who attested to his literary talents.

Historical Evidence and the Debate

Supporters of Marlowe's authorship rely heavily on circumstantial evidence. They point to the reliability of contemporary documents, such as inquests and legal records, which listed Marlowe as the author of certain works. They also argue that his contemporaries acknowledged him as a poet of repute. For instance, several of the Queen's men, including Thomas Kyd and John Lyly, valued Marlowe's talent and included him in their literary circle.

Opponents of Marlowe's authorship, on the other hand, argue about his time in Europe, which some claim was a period when he was involved in espionage and the black arts, and that he lacked the proper connections to have been commissioned for some of the works attributed to him. The absence of a clear biography of Marlowe during his travels and the questionable circumstances of his death further push the debate in favor of alternative theories.

The Impact on Literature and Historiography

The authorship controversy over Christopher Marlowe extends beyond the realm of literary studies. It touches on broader issues of historiography and how we construct narratives of the past. It challenges the societal and cultural norms of the Elizabethan era, which were heavily influenced by political and religious agendas.

For literature, the debate raises questions about the authenticity of works and the role of scholarly tradition. It also invites a closer examination of the contexts in which certain texts were created, and the influence of external forces on the phenomenal success of a particular writer.

In conclusion, while the authorship of Christopher Marlowe remains a contentious topic, it continues to captivate scholars and enthusiasts of both literature and history. Whether a collaborative effort or an enigma, Marlowe's works stand as a testament to the enduring power of the English Renaissance and continue to be celebrated and analyzed.