The Elizabethan Era, which spanned from 1558 to 1603, is often regarded as a golden age of English literature and drama. This period saw the flourishing of poetry, prose, and theater, with the works of Shakespeare’s contemporaries in history often taking center stage. Shakespeare, widely recognized as one of the greatest playwrights in history, produced timeless classics such as “Romeo and Juliet,” “Hamlet,” and “Macbeth” during this time. However, it’s important to note that while Shakespeare is a central figure of the Elizabethan Era, he was not the only influential literary figure of the time.
The purpose of this article is to shed light on these “forgotten voices” and bring attention to their stories and experiences. It aims to give a platform to individuals whose voices have been overlooked or marginalized, and to bring awareness to their unique perspectives and contributions. By highlighting these forgotten voices, the article seeks to promote understanding, empathy, and inclusivity in our society.
The Cultural and Historical Context of the Elizabethan Era
During the Shakespeare’s contemporaries in history England experienced a rich cultural and political environment. Queen Elizabeth I’s reign was known for its flourishing of the arts, with her patronage of writers like William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe leading to a golden age of literature and theater. The rise of theaters and public performances also played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of the time. The popularity of plays and performances brought people from all walks of life together in shared spaces, serving as a form of entertainment and social commentary. Overall, the Elizabethan era was a time of great creativity and artistic expression, with Queen Elizabeth I’s influence playing a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and political environment of the period.
During Shakespeare’s time, drama and poetry held significant importance in society. The theater was a popular form of entertainment, and plays were often attended by people from all social classes. Drama and poetry were not only a form of entertainment, but also served as a means of expressing and exploring societal issues, politics, and human emotions. Additionally, the competitive nature of the literary world during this period led to a flourishing of creativity and innovation, as writers and playwrights sought to outdo each other in creating compelling and thought-provoking works. This environment of competition ultimately contributed to the richness and depth of the drama and poetry produced during this period.
Prominent Contemporaries of Shakespeare
Christopher Marlowe
Early life and education: Christopher Marlowe was born in Canterbury, England in 1564, the same year as William Shakespeare. He attended the King’s School in Canterbury and then went on to study at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1584. Contribution to Elizabethan drama: Marlowe was one of the most important playwrights of the Elizabethan era and is known for his groundbreaking contributions to the development of English drama. His plays, such as Doctor Faustus and Tamburlaine, are known for their powerful language, complex characters, and exploration of moral and philosophical themes.
Shakespeare’s influence on literature and the English language is immeasurable. His works have had a lasting impact on countless writers and playwrights, and his legacy continues to be celebrated and studied around the world. As for the mystery surrounding his death, there has been much speculation and debate among scholars and historians. Some believe he may have died from a fever, while others have suggested foul play. Regardless of the circumstances, Shakespeare’s contributions to literature and the arts will continue to be revered for generations to come.
Ben Jonson
Ben Jonson, a contemporary of William Shakespeare, had a complex relationship with the famous playwright that involved both rivalry and admiration. While there is evidence of professional jealousy and competition between the two, Jonson also greatly admired Shakespeare’s talent and skill as a dramatist. Some of Jonson’s major works include “Volpone” and “The Alchemist,” which are both considered important works in the canon of English literature. “Volpone” is a satirical play that explores themes of greed and deception, while “The Alchemist” is a comedy that satirizes the alchemical and scientific pursuits of the time. In addition to his own literary works, Jonson played a significant role in advancing literary criticism and shaping the development of drama.
Thomas Kyd
The Spanish Tragedy is a play written by Thomas Kyd and is often credited with popularizing the genre of revenge tragedies in Elizabethan drama. Its impact on the era’s dramatic works is significant, as it influenced many other playwrights, including William Shakespeare. The play’s themes and dramatic structure can be seen in Shakespeare’s works such as Hamlet and Titus Andronicus. The Spanish Tragedy’s influence on Elizabethan drama and Shakespeare’s works continues to be studied and appreciated by scholars and theater enthusiasts alike.
John Webster
The Duchess of Malfi, written by John Webster, is a notable work in the genre of Jacobean drama. Its dark and macabre style has had a lasting impact on the development of drama, particularly in its exploration of themes such as power, corruption, and the human psyche. The play’s complex characters, intense emotional conflicts, and shocking acts of violence have continued to captivate audiences and inspire countless adaptations and interpretations. Webster’s ability to create a sense of unease and suspense through his vivid and often gruesome imagery has solidified The Duchess of Malfi’s reputation as a classic of English literature.
Others to Mention Briefly
Thomas Dekker was a prominent English playwright and pamphleteer best known for his work “The Shoemaker’s Holiday,” which is a popular example of Elizabethan comedy. Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher were English playwrights who collaborated on numerous plays in the early 17th century. Their work greatly influenced the development of English drama and they are best known for their tragicomedies and romantic dramas. Robert Greene was a popular English author and playwright in the late 16th century.
Challenges Faced by Shakespeare’s Contemporaries
Limited access to resources and patronage can make it difficult for aspiring writers to establish themselves in the literary world. Harsh societal conditions, such as censorship and political pressures, can also pose significant challenges for writers seeking to express themselves freely. Additionally, the competitive nature of the literary world means that fame can be fleeting, making it important for writers to persist in their craft despite the transient nature of success.
The challenges that contributed to some writers being overshadowed by Shakespeare include the fact that Shakespeare’s works have been widely celebrated and studied for centuries, leading to his enduring popularity and influence. Additionally, Shakespeare’s plays and poetry have been widely performed and adapted across various mediums, further solidifying his legacy. Furthermore, the lack of surviving works from other writers of the time period, as well as the limited access to education and resources for many writers, also played a role in their overshadowing by Shakespeare. Overall, these challenges have contributed to the prominence of Shakespeare’s work in comparison to that of other writers from his era.
Legacy and Influence of Shakespeare’s Contemporaries
Certainly! Christopher Marlowe was a significant figure in the development of drama and English literature during the Renaissance period. His works, such as “Doctor Faustus” and “Tamburlaine the Great,” were groundbreaking in their use of blank verse and themes of ambition and power. Marlowe’s influence on Shakespeare is evident in the structure and themes of his plays. It is believed that Marlowe’s work may have inspired Shakespeare’s exploration of similar themes and characters, such as the ambitious and tragic figure of Macbeth. In turn, Shakespeare’s success and popularity in the Elizabethan era likely influenced Marlowe’s writing style and subject matter, as they were both part of the same literary and theatrical circles.
Why Their Voices Were Forgotten
Shakespeare stands as a cultural icon with an enduring legacy that spans centuries. His works have left an indelible mark on literature, theater, and the arts. Despite the overwhelming focus on Shakespeare, there is limited preservation of his manuscripts and historical records. This has led to ongoing debates and discussions about the authenticity and accuracy of his works. Additionally, shifts in literary tastes over the centuries have influenced the reception and interpretation of Shakespeare’s works, adding layers of complexity to his cultural significance. Overall, Shakespeare’s status as a cultural icon remains undisputed, but the limited preservation of his original materials and the evolving nature of literary tastes continue to shape our understanding of his legacy.
It’s important to acknowledge the forgotten voices of Shakespeare’s contemporaries in order to gain a more complete understanding of Elizabethan literature. While Shakespeare’s work is undeniably great, it’s essential to recognize that his greatness does not diminish the value of other writers from the same time period. Exploring the works of these forgotten voices can provide a more comprehensive view of the literary landscape of the era and offer new insights into the themes, styles, and influences that were prevalent at the time. By doing so, readers can gain a fuller understanding of the rich and diverse literary tradition of the Elizabethan era.