The Jew of Malta as a Renaissance Play II Christopher Marlowe as a Dramatist

 

"Marlowe was the father of English tragedy, 

and Shakespeare its prince." 

- John Dryden

INTRODUCTION:

Christopher Marlowe (1564-1593) was indeed a significant representative dramatist of the Elizabethan Age. Although his career was cut short due to his untimely death, Marlowe's contributions to English drama were highly influential and helped the literary career of a host of dramatists and poets including William Shakespeare.

"Without Marlowe, there would have been no Shakespeare." - Peter Whelan

"Shakespeare is indebted to Marlowe for his daring themes, his psychological depth, and his ability to give voice to the passions of his characters." - Helen Vendler

Marlowe's plays are known for their powerful language, intense themes, and innovative use of blank verse. He is considered one of the pioneers of English drama and a precursor to William Shakespeare.

FOUR GREAT TRAGEDIES:

1.   "Tamburlaine the Great" (Parts I and II) (1587)

2.   "Doctor Faustus" (1588)

3.   “Jew of Malta” (1589)

4.   “Edward II” (1592)

‘THE JEW OF MALTA’ AS A RENAISSANCE TRAGEDY:

"The Jew of Malta" by Christopher Marlowe is often regarded as a Renaissance tragedy. Several Renaissance elements can be identified in this play. Here are some key elements of the Renaissance that are present in the play:

1.     HUMANISM:

Renaissance humanism emphasized the importance of human power, reason, and individualism. In "The Jew of Malta," characters like Barabas and other individuals exhibit qualities associated with humanism. Barabas is a complex character who wants to empower the world by his richness. He was over ambitious and he had complete faith and confidence on himself. He uses his cunningness and intelligence to acquire richness and power. He had no faith in God and was not afraid of Him and keeps on murdering all those who come on his way.

2.     MATERIALISM:

The character of Barabas, a Jewish merchant, embodies extreme materialism. He is driven by his desire for wealth and power, going to great lengths to accumulate riches and manipulate others for personal gain. The play portrays wealth as a source of power and influence. Barabas's wealth enables him to manipulate and control others, including political figures and religious leaders. His accumulation of wealth grants him a position of authority towards the end of the play.

3.     CORRUPTION AND DISHONESTY:

Materialism in the play is often associated with corruption and dishonesty. Barabas resorts to cunning schemes, bribery, and manipulation to achieve his material goals. He employs disguises and feigns loyalty with Ferneze to further his own interests. He asks Ithamore to poison all the nuns including his own daughter which shows that Barabas is the embodiment of corruption and dishonesty.

 4.    MORAL COMPLEXITY:

Renaissance drama often explored moral ambiguity and challenged traditional notions of good and evil. "The Jew of Malta" presents a morally complex world, particularly through the character of Barabas. He is depicted as both a victim and a villain, blurring the lines between right and wrong. The play questions established moral norms and invites the audience to critically examine their own judgments.

5.     SOCIO-POLITICAL COMMENTARY:

Renaissance plays often reflected the social and political concerns of the time. "The Jew of Malta" tackles issues such as religious conflict between the Jews and Christians. The plays also shows the political conflicts between Turkey and Malta.

 6.    THEATRICAL INNOVATION:

Renaissance drama witnessed significant advancements in theatrical techniques and staging. "The Jew of Malta" presents Marlowe's skill in creating complex plots, dramatic tension, and engaging dialogue which differ from Aristotelian and Senacan tragedies. Marlowe has innovated new dramatic devices such as soliloquies, asides, and dramatic irony to capture attention of the Elizabethan audience. Shakespeare who is known for his complex plot and high sounding emotional soliloquies is much indebted to Marlowe in this regard.

CONCLUSION:

In this way, we may conclude by saying that ‘The Jew of Malta’ is a typical Renaissance play representing all elements of the movement of Renaissance which was popular during the 15^th and 16^th centuries in England. Humanism, materialism, socio-political conflicts, corruption, loss of faith in God, individualism – all these characteristics of Renaissance are evident in the characters of Barabas, Ferneze, Calymath, Ithamore and so on.

“While 'The Jew of Malta' can be read as a complex exploration of greed, religious conflict, and the corrupting influence of power, it is ultimately a quintessential Renaissance play.” - Anonymous

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