Dead or Alive?
We are all familiar with the most famous playwright to have ever existed. He was an extraordinary individual who transformed literature through his work in theater and poetry. He may even be the most well-known figure associated with literature, for his name has become entwined in modern society.
His name is William Shakespeare. However, there is another individual who does not even match closely to the recognition that Shakespeare has received, yet he was the individual who influenced Shakespeare. He was born roughly two months apart from Shakespeare, rising to his popularity much more rapidly than Shakespeare. As a matter of fact, Shakespeare rose to popularity two weeks after his death. His name is Christopher Marlowe.
After reading that excerpt, you must be asking yourself quite a few questions. Why is it that Marlowe received such significantly less recognition that Shakespeare? Why is it that Shakespeare rose to popularity so short after Marlowe’s death?
I am going to address these questions, with one intriguing theory. The theory suggests that these two individuals are identical, for one of these individuals were just a disguise. There are several reasons which may support this theory.
First, it is noted that the work of Shakespeare is incredibly similar to that of Marlowe. The only explanation provided by Shakespeare was that he was influenced by Marlowe, however can one produce such spectacles merely from influence? (Jack)
Furthermore, at the time of Marlowe’s death, he was in trouble with the government. For he held accusations of convincing alternative individuals to convert to Atheism, which was a severe crime to commit at times of such religious importance.
Moreover, the death of Marlowe is still disputed. It is a mystery to most who do not hold strong opinions, for there are many theories. How can death be so strongly disputed? Surely there must have been some witnesses, and if there were, why didn’t they publicize their views? With such a lack of solid evidence, it is more rational to presume that such a death did not occur.
Christopher Marlowe and William Shakespeare were both prodigious individuals. They both contributed in masses to literature, however the amount of recognition Shakespeare receives in relationship to Marlowe draws many questions. In this article, I have offered only one possible answer, however there are many more that exist. It is safe to say, though, that this is surely one of the most controversial, absurd of these answers.