Christopher Marlowe is one of the most mysterious and interesting authors of his time. From being an English spy to writing some of the most influential works of his time, he has had literature enthusiasts amazed for centuries. First, his origin is an incredible tale. Second, His writings influenced and shaped the Renaissance period of history. Lastly, his works influenced even Shakespeare himself. These things show how influential Marlowe was as a play writer in the Renaissance era and how great of an impact he had on literature. Christopher Marlowe had his beginnings in the town of Canterbury, England around 1564. He was fortunate to be able to complete high school, and received a scholarship to go to college as well. He almost did not receive …show more content…
He wrote during the Renaissance era. The word renaissance translates from French to mean literally “rebirth.” This was a time in history when society began to value science and knowledge over faith and belief. Marlowe’s works certainly reflected these new ideas. All throughout his writings he eluded to the great knowledge and intelligence of mankind. “Who buzzeth in mine ears I am a spirit? Be I a devil, yet God may pity me; Yea, God will pity me, if I repent (Marlowe, Doctor Faustus)” would be an example of this concept. This became more and more prevalent in works written in that time period. Writers and philosophers would reason that mankind is to be credited for things instead of God, to some degree. This idea is referred to as humanism. This is wrong on so many levels, but nevertheless, most went right along with these ideas. Playwrights such as Ben Jonson and even the great William Shakespeare were among those who were influenced by Marlowe. These men would compose plays, which would be performed for hundreds of people. Anyone could go and attend a play, therefore, every class of people saw these plays and were influenced by them. The messages of that day rung out loud and clear through their plays, making it easy for these men to shape the way people would think for years to