Women in Christopher Marlowes Drama , Mohammad A.Yousef

Women in Christopher Marlowe s Drama

Mohammad A.Yousef


Christopher Marlowe, one of the most prominent playwrights of the Elizabethan era, is known for his dramatic flair and unique portrayal of female characters. Through his works, Marlowe presents a contrasting range of women, each with their own agency, complexity, and significance to the plot. Whether virtuous´-or-malevolent, Marlowe s female characters challenge societal norms and expectations, giving them a pivotal role in his plays. This essay will explore the various representations of women in Marlowe s drama, highlighting their multidimensional qualities and the power dynamics they navigate.

In Marlowe s tragedy "Doctor Faustus," Faustus encounters two female characters who are central to the play s plot. Firstly, there is Wagner s Mistress, a seductive and provocative figure who entices Faustus and represents the tempting allure of sin. Her portrayal underscores the association of women with temptation and an instrument of evil. On the other hand, we have the character of Helen of Troy, who personifies beauty, desire, and ultimate damnation. Helen s beauty becomes a catalyst for Faustus s ambition, representing a male-dominated society s objectification of women.

Moving to "Tamburlaine the Great," Marlowe introduces Zenocrate, a strong-willed and independent woman who transforms from a captive princess to Tamburlaine s beloved queen. Zenocrate defies social expectations and challenges the patriarchal authority by pursuing her own desires and ambitions. Despite her eventual capture and tragic demise, she symbolizes the resilience and strength of women under oppressive circumstances.

In "The Jew of Malta," we meet Abigail, the daughter of Barabas, a Jewish merchant. Abigail s conversion to Christianity and her ultimate betrayal of her father for the Christian governor Ferneze portrays her as a conflicted character driven by revenge. Marlowe presents Abigail as a symbol of religious hypocrisy and the --dir--e consequences of societal prejudice.

In "Edward II," the character of Isabella, the queen consort and wife of King Edward II, portrays a woman torn between her loyalty to her husband and her desire for power. Isabella emerges as a manipulative and cunning woman who uses her sexual allure as a weapon to gain power. Marlowe illustrates the complexities of female agency and the struggles women faced in a patriarchal society.

Moreover, Marlowe s plays exhibit significant homoerotic undertones, particularly in "Edward II" and "Dido, Queen of Carthage." In "Edward II," the character of Gaveston, the king s male lover, shares an intense emotional bond with Edward, illustrating a forbidden love that ultimately challenges societal norms. Similarly, in "Dido, Queen of Carthage," the passionate relationship between Dido and Aeneas depicts a love that transcends gender boundaries.

Marlowe s portrayal of female characters often highlights their sexuality and its link to power. In "Hero and Leander," Marlowe portrays Hero, a priestess of Venus. Hero s decision to defy her religious vows and pursue a romantic relationship with Leander showcases the tension between desire and societal expectations. Her sexuality becomes both her downfall and a reflection of her agency.

In "The Massacre at Paris," Marlowe s exploration of political power is evident through Catherine de Medici, the queen mother of France. Catherine s manipulation and cunning tactics demonstrate her strength and authority as a woman in a male-dominated political landscape. Marlowe subverts gender norms by placing a woman in a position of immense power, highlighting the complexities of female leadership.

Lastly, in "The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus," Marlowe introduces the character of Faustus s servant, Wagner. Wagner s presence challenges traditional gender roles, as he takes on a traditionally feminine role as a domestic servant. Marlowe s inclusion of a male character in a subservient role disrupts traditional gender expectations and raises questions about societal norms.

In conclusion, Marlowe s portrayal of women in his dramas offers a varied and multifaceted representation of female characters. Whether seductive, ambitious,´-or-powerful, these women challenge societal norms, navigate power dynamics, and showcase the complexities of female agency. Marlowe s exploration of gender, sexuality, and power in his works contributes to a nuanced understanding of the role of women in Elizabethan society and continues to captivate audiences to this day.

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