by Dr Stevie Simkin (Author)
This study provides an authoritative overview of all Marlowe's work. It includes thorough investigations of his major plays, Tamburlaine, Edward II, The Jew of Malta and Doctor Faustus as well as a full discussion of The Massacre at Paris, Dido Queen of Carthage and all his extant poetry. Analysis of Faustus takes full account of both A and B text versions. Thoroughly researched and yet presented in an accessible, engaging style, A Preface to Marlowe reads Marlowe's life and times, as well as his work, in the light of current critical theory. Consequently, it is a vital guide for all students of early modern drama. As well as providing sharp analysis of stage history, Dr Simkin reflects on the wider significance of a stage-oriented approach. The result is a reading of Marlowe that re-opens debates about his status as a radical figure and as a subversive playwright and invites the reader to experience the plays as immediate, exciting, 'live' documents.
Format: Textbook Binding
Pages: 280
Edition: 1
Publisher: Longman
Published: 25 Jan 2000
ISBN 10: 0582312981
ISBN 13: 9780582312982
an uncanny knack of getting to the heart of the matter and suggesting its complexity without belaboring the point
I would recommend it as a lucid and expert assessment of the various meanings of Marlowe's works then and now
Sixteenth Century Journal
'..the book has many strenghts as a literary textbook for first-year undergraduates. It is fluent and confident and synthesizes its material well.'
Simon Shepherd, Central School of Speech and Drama, London, Theatre Research International, Vol 26/3, 2001.