Scan barcode
A review by shaunnow38
Edward II by Christopher Marlowe
4.0
I am not fully sure what to think about this play. I read a lightly edited version with no annotations, scene breaks, or even full character distinctions. For the most part this wasn't a problem, but the rapidity of certain sections of the text made it more difficult to comprehend. Overall, I was struck most by the death of Edward, particularly the torments he was forced to endure during his imprisonment.
The gay element to this play was a main driving force for any interpretation I have had, especially the bodily and erotic aspects it brings to the play. Edward's and Gaveston's bodies are ravaged, whether it be by beheading or crushing or simply torture. They are persecuted because they are gay, and because this is perceived to be a blight on the kingdom. And thus, their bodies, particularly the kings, which in this period is seen as the body of the nation and occasionally as a heavenly thing, is defiled and damaged. It's a very fascinating play from that, especially seeing Isabell's own problems with not being touched or acknowledged by the king.
Great read, typical Marlowe in how violent it is, but still worthwhile for anyone who studies or enjoys the histories and tragedies of the period. Definitely an influence on some of Shakespeare's histories, and in particular his great tragedy, King Lear.
The gay element to this play was a main driving force for any interpretation I have had, especially the bodily and erotic aspects it brings to the play. Edward's and Gaveston's bodies are ravaged, whether it be by beheading or crushing or simply torture. They are persecuted because they are gay, and because this is perceived to be a blight on the kingdom. And thus, their bodies, particularly the kings, which in this period is seen as the body of the nation and occasionally as a heavenly thing, is defiled and damaged. It's a very fascinating play from that, especially seeing Isabell's own problems with not being touched or acknowledged by the king.
Great read, typical Marlowe in how violent it is, but still worthwhile for anyone who studies or enjoys the histories and tragedies of the period. Definitely an influence on some of Shakespeare's histories, and in particular his great tragedy, King Lear.