The Jew of Malta by Christopher Marlowe
Christopher Marlowe Life and Work:
Life:
- Born: February 26, 1564, in Canterbury, England.
- Education: Attended Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree.
- Scholarship: Known for his intelligence and scholarship, Marlowe was associated with a group of scholars known as the "University Wits."
- Espionage: Speculations persist about Marlowe's involvement in espionage for the English government.
- Literary Career: Flourished in the late 16th century, contemporaneous with William Shakespeare.
- Controversial Views: Marlowe held unconventional religious and political views, which led to accusations of atheism and heresy.
Works:
- "Dido, Queen of Carthage" (c. 1586-1587): An early work, possibly co-written with Thomas Nashe, based on the story of Dido and Aeneas.
- "Tamburlaine, Parts 1 and 2" (c. 1587-1588): A two-part play that brought Marlowe considerable fame. It is a blank verse epic drama.
- "Doctor Faustus" (c. 1588): One of Marlowe's most famous works, exploring themes of ambition, knowledge, and the consequences of making a pact with the devil.
- "The Jew of Malta" (c. 1589-1590): A tragic comedy dealing with themes of revenge and religious conflict.
- "Edward II" (c. 1592): A historical play depicting the reign and downfall of King Edward II.
- "The Massacre at Paris" (c. 1593): A short, intense play dramatizing the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre.
Death:
- Date of Death: May 30, 1593 (aged 29).
- Circumstances: Marlowe died in a tavern brawl in Deptford, under mysterious circumstances.
- Conspiracy Theories: Various conspiracy theories exist surrounding Marlowe's death, with some suggesting he was murdered due to his involvement in espionage.
Legacy:
- Influence: A significant influence on Elizabethan drama, particularly in the development of blank verse.
- Literary Impact: Marlowe's works paved the way for the Renaissance drama that followed, influencing playwrights like Shakespeare.
- Posthumous Works: Some believe that parts of his unfinished works, such as "Hero and Leander," were completed by other writers.
- Literary Reputation: Marlowe is celebrated for his poetic skill, exploration of complex themes, and his contribution to the English Renaissance drama.
Characters:
Barabas:
- The central character and protagonist of the play. Barabas is a Jewish merchant who experiences a tragic downfall due to religious discrimination, greed, and revenge.
Abigail:
- Barabas's daughter who becomes entangled in the political and romantic conflicts of the play. Her love affairs contribute to the tragic events.
Governor Ferneze:
- The Christian governor of Malta. He is responsible for the seizure of Jewish wealth to fund the city's defense against the Turks.
Mathias:
- The son of a wealthy Maltese merchant who falls in love with Abigail. His character is central to the romantic subplot and the tragic events of the play.
Lodowick:
- Another Christian character who is involved in the romantic conflict with Abigail. His rivalry with Mathias contributes to the unfolding tragedy.
Ithamore:
- Barabas's servant. Ithamore plays a significant role in carrying out Barabas's schemes and becomes increasingly involved in the Machiavellian plots.
Bellamira:
- A courtesan and one of Barabas's associates. Her character adds complexity to the social and political dynamics of the play.
Calymath:
- The son of the Turkish Emperor. Calymath represents the Turkish threat and becomes entangled in the political intrigues orchestrated by Barabas.
Katherine:
- A nun who is romantically involved with Friar Jacomo. Her character adds another layer to the complex relationships in the play.
Friar Jacomo:
- A friar who is romantically involved with Katherine. His character plays a role in the unfolding events, particularly in the later acts.
Pilia-Borza:
- A follower of Barabas. Pilia-Borza is involved in Barabas's schemes and adds a comedic element to the play.
Ferneze's Son:
- The son of Governor Ferneze. His character is involved in the political conflicts and is affected by the events orchestrated by Barabas.
Merchant:
- A character who engages in business dealings with Barabas. His role contributes to the economic and social aspects of the play.
Three Jews:
- Minor characters who represent the Jewish community in Malta. They are affected by the discriminatory actions taken by Governor Ferneze.
Prologue
The prologue to "The Jew of Malta" by Christopher Marlowe serves as an introduction to the themes and characters of the play. While not providing an extensive summary of the plot, the prologue offers a glimpse into the central conflicts and sets the tone for the unfolding drama. Here's a summary of the key points in the prologue:
Introduction to Malta's Strife:
- The prologue begins by referencing the setting of the play, Malta, and alludes to the turmoil and conflict that exists within its borders.
Wealth Seizure by Governor Ferneze:
- Governor Ferneze's decision to seize the wealth of the Jews in Malta is highlighted. This action becomes a central plot point that triggers the subsequent events in the play.
Focus on Barabas:
- The prologue introduces Barabas, the central character of the play. It describes him as a Jew who experiences a significant fall from wealth and status due to the actions of Governor Ferneze.
Themes of Vengeance and Deceit:
- The prologue hints at the themes that will dominate the play, emphasizing Barabas's quest for vengeance and the intricate web of deceit that will unfold.
Machiavellian Elements:
- Barabas's cunning and Machiavellian strategies are hinted at, suggesting that his actions will be marked by political maneuvering and calculated schemes.
Tragic Elements:
- The prologue alludes to the tragic nature of the play, foreshadowing the unfortunate events that will befall the characters.
Reference to the Turkish War:
- The prologue mentions the Turkish war, indicating that the broader political context will play a role in shaping the events of the play.
Character Relationships:
- Relationships between characters, such as Barabas and his daughter Abigail, are briefly touched upon, setting the stage for the personal conflicts that will unfold.
Reflective Closing:
- The prologue closes with a reflection on fate and the human condition, suggesting that the play will delve into deeper philosophical and moral questions.
In summary, the prologue serves as a brief but evocative introduction to the world of "The Jew of Malta," providing the audience with a glimpse of the conflicts, characters, and overarching themes that will be explored in the subsequent acts of the play.
Summary
Act 1 :
The first act of "The Jew of Malta" introduces the audience to Barabas, a wealthy Jewish merchant residing in Malta. The play begins with the governor of Malta, Ferneze, devising a plan to defend the city against the Turks. Ferneze decides to seize the property of the Jewish residents to fund the city's defense.
Barabas, initially unaware of the governor's scheme, learns about the plan and attempts to safeguard his wealth. Despite his efforts, Barabas is forced to give up half of his estate. His daughter, Abigail, is sent to a nunnery as part of the governor's strategy to control the Jewish population.
This act establishes the central conflict of the play: the tension between the Christians, represented by the governor and the Maltese citizens, and the Jewish community, with Barabas as a key figure. Barabas's reactions to the confiscation of his wealth set the stage for the unfolding events, foreshadowing the character's cunning and determination in seeking revenge against those who have wronged him.
Act 2:
In the second act of "The Jew of Malta," Barabas, the Jewish merchant, grapples with the consequences of the governor's actions against the Jewish community. Barabas, deeply affected by the loss of his wealth and his daughter's confinement in the nunnery, is determined to seek revenge.
Learning about the heavy taxes imposed on the remaining Jewish residents by Ferneze, Barabas decides to take advantage of the situation. He resolves to feign conversion to Christianity to regain his wealth and influence within the society that has marginalized him. This decision marks a significant shift in Barabas's strategy, highlighting his cunning and ability to adapt to the changing circumstances.
The act also introduces Abigail, Barabas's daughter, who is now living in the nunnery. Her predicament adds emotional depth to Barabas's character, portraying the personal toll of the governor's actions on the Jewish population.
As Barabas hatches his plan for revenge and conversion, the stage is set for a complex web of deceit and manipulation that will unfold in the subsequent acts. The act establishes Barabas as a Machiavellian figure, willing to use any means to achieve his goals in a society that has treated him unjustly.
Act 3 :
Act 3 of "The Jew of Malta" sees Barabas continuing his intricate and manipulative plans as he navigates the complex political and religious landscape of Malta. The key developments in this act include:
Barabas's Feigned Conversion:
- Barabas successfully carries out his plan to convert to Christianity, pretending to embrace the Christian faith to regain social standing and access to his wealth. This conversion is a strategic move to further his revenge against those who have wronged him.
Support for the Turks:
- While publicly professing Christianity, Barabas secretly supports the Turks in their conflict with Malta. His allegiance with the enemy serves both as a means of revenge against the Christians and as a way to increase his wealth and influence.
Abigail's Love Story:
- Abigail, now a Christian nun, becomes entangled in a romantic subplot. She falls in love with Mathias, the son of a wealthy Maltese merchant. This love story introduces an element of personal conflict for Barabas, as his daughter's affections align with the enemy.
Betrayal Unveiled:
- As Abigail expresses her love for Mathias, Barabas discovers her feelings and realizes the depth of her conversion. The betrayal he perceives intensifies his determination for revenge.
Act 3 sets the stage for the unfolding complexities of the plot. Barabas's dual identity, Abigail's love story, and the continuing conflict between Christians and Turks contribute to the intrigue and drama that characterize Marlowe's play. The act emphasizes the theme of deception and the blurred lines between loyalty and betrayal in a society marked by religious tension.
Act 4 :
Act 4 of "The Jew of Malta" is marked by a series of intricate schemes and tragic events that further propel the plot toward its climax. Key developments in this act include:
Mathias and Lodowick's Duel:
- Barabas, continuing his manipulations, deceives both Mathias and Lodowick, convincing them that Abigail has been unfaithful to each of them. The two men, driven by jealousy and anger, are manipulated into a fatal duel.
Abigail's Discovery:
- Abigail discovers her father's schemes and realizes his role in orchestrating the deadly conflict between Mathias and Lodowick. She is horrified by Barabas's deceit and the tragic consequences it has on the lives of those around her.
Barabas's Poisoning of Abigail:
- Faced with the possibility of Abigail exposing his treachery, Barabas decides to poison her. This shocking act of filicide adds a tragic dimension to the character of Barabas, emphasizing the extent of his ruthlessness and cunning.
Repercussions of the Duel:
- The duel between Mathias and Lodowick results in the deaths of both men. The tragic outcome intensifies the atmosphere of revenge and sets the stage for further conflicts between Barabas and the Christian community.
Act 4 is a turning point in the play, marked by a series of tragic events that contribute to the escalating tension. Barabas's machinations and the consequences of his actions drive the characters further into a web of deception, betrayal, and revenge, setting the stage for the climactic events of the final act.
Act 5 :
Act 5 of "The Jew of Malta" is the culmination of the intricate plots and schemes, leading to the tragic resolution of the play. Key events in this act include:
Manipulation and Betrayal:
- Barabas, now fully committed to his vengeful plans, continues manipulating both the Christian and Turkish leaders. He plays a double game, attempting to secure his own safety and wealth by pitting the two sides against each other.
Barabas's Rise and Fall:
- Barabas's cunning initially appears successful, as he gains favor with the Turkish leaders. However, his manipulations begin to unravel as the Christians discover his role in the Turkish alliance. The Christians, led by Ferneze, seek revenge against Barabas.
Barabas's Demise:
- In a final twist, Barabas's own cunning turns against him. His attempt to secure a place for himself in the Turkish hierarchy leads to his own tragic demise. As he falls into a cauldron that he had prepared to execute others, Barabas becomes the victim of his own schemes.
Reflection on Tragedy:
- The act concludes with the Christian leaders lamenting the tragic events that have unfolded. They express remorse for the consequences of their actions and reflect on the cyclical nature of human behavior, acknowledging the perpetuation of greed and revenge.
Act 5 serves as the resolution of the intricate and tragic narrative of "The Jew of Malta." The downfall of Barabas, marked by poetic justice, underscores the themes of revenge, deception, and the consequences of unchecked ambition that run throughout the play. The concluding reflection on tragedy adds a layer of contemplation on the human condition and the complexities of morality.
Questions:
Multiple Choice Questions
Who is the central character in "The Jew of Malta"?
- A) Governor Ferneze
- B) Abigail
- C) Barabas
- D) Mathias
Answer: C) Barabas
What is Barabas's tragic flaw?
- A) Love
- B) Greed and ambition
- C) Loyalty
- D) Fear
Answer: B) Greed and ambition
Why does Governor Ferneze seize the wealth of the Jews in Malta?
- A) To fund a cultural event
- B) To build a new temple
- C) To defend Malta against the Turks
- D) To support a charity
Answer: C) To defend Malta against the Turks
What does Barabas feign in Act 3 to regain his wealth and influence?
- A) Madness
- B) Christianity
- C) Illness
- D) Ignorance
Answer: B) Christianity
Who falls in love with Abigail in the play?
- A) Governor Ferneze
- B) Mathias
- C) Lodowick
- D) Barabas
Answer: B) Mathias
What tragic event occurs as a result of Barabas's manipulation in Act 4?
- A) Abigail's marriage
- B) A duel between Mathias and Lodowick
- C) Barabas's conversion
- D) Governor Ferneze's death
Answer: B) A duel between Mathias and Lodowick
How does Abigail meet her end in the play?
- A) Poisoned by Barabas
- B) Killed in a duel
- C) Executed by the governor
- D) Dies of natural causes
Answer: A) Poisoned by Barabas
In Act 5, whom does Barabas manipulate in his bid for survival?
- A) Turks
- B) Christians
- C) Both Turks and Christians
- D) Abigail
Answer: C) Both Turks and Christians
What is the method of Barabas's demise in Act 5?
- A) Poisoning
- B) Execution
- C) Drowning
- D) Falling into a cauldron
Answer: D) Falling into a cauldron
What does the play reflect on in its concluding moments?
- A) Love and happiness
- B) Cyclical nature of human behavior
- C) Political alliances
- D) Religious tolerance
Answer: B) Cyclical nature of human behavior
Who is the governor of Malta in the play?
- A) Mathias
- B) Lodowick
- C) Barabas
- D) Ferneze
Answer: D) Ferneze
What is Barabas's religious identity in the play?
- A) Christian
- B) Muslim
- C) Atheist
- D) Jewish
Answer: D) Jewish
What motivates Barabas to seek revenge in the play?
- A) Personal gain
- B) Religious discrimination
- C) Love for Abigail
- D) Fear of the Turks
Answer: B) Religious discrimination
What emotion does the play aim to evoke in the audience, leading to a purging of emotions?
- A) Joy
- B) Pity and fear
- C) Anger
- D) Surprise
Answer: B) Pity and fear
How does Abigail end up in a nunnery in the play?
- A) Voluntary choice
- B) Forced by Barabas
- C) Governor's order
- D) Escapes from home
Answer: C) Governor's order
What is Barabas's response to the governor's seizure of Jewish property in Act 1?
- A) Acceptance
- B) Resistance
- C) Fleeing Malta
- D) Bargaining
Answer: B) Resistance
What is the Turkish threat used for in Barabas's schemes?
- A) Religious conversion
- B) Political alliance
- C) Trade agreements
- D) Cultural exchange
Answer: B) Political alliance
Who discovers Barabas's role in orchestrating the duel between Mathias and Lodowick?
- A) Abigail
- B) Governor Ferneze
- C) Turkish leaders
- D) Barabas himself
Answer: A) Abigail
What emotion does Barabas feel towards Abigail's love for Mathias?
- A) Joy
- B) Indifference
- C) Pride
- D) Horror
Answer: D) Horror
What does Barabas manipulate in Act 5 to create conflict between the Turks and Christians?
- A) Religious texts
- B) Artifacts
- C) Wealth
- D) Letters
Answer: D) Letters
How does Barabas die in Act 5?
- A) Poisoning
- B) Execution
- C) Drowning
- D) Falling into a cauldron
Answer: D) Falling into a cauldron
What is the primary theme explored in "The Jew of Malta"?
- A) Romantic love
- B) Religious tolerance
- C) Political intrigue
- D) Tragedy and revenge
Answer: D) Tragedy and revenge
What does Barabas's conversion to Christianity signify in the play?
- A) Genuine religious transformation
- B) Irony and deceit
- C) A political alliance
- D) A philosophical statement
Answer: B) Irony and deceit
Who are the victims of Barabas's manipulation in the play?
- A) Turks
- B) Christians
- C) Both Turks and Christians
- D) Abigail
Answer: C) Both Turks and Christians
What do the Christian leaders reflect on in the concluding moments of the play?
- A) Their triumph over the Turks
- B) The consequences of their actions
- C) A new alliance with Barabas
- D) The prosperity of Malta
Answer: B) The consequences of their actions
Broad Questions
1. Discuss various themes in "The Jew of Malta" by Christopher Marlowe.
Answer:
"The Jew of Malta" by Christopher Marlowe is often considered a tragic play, and several themes contribute to its tragic elements. Here's a more in-depth exploration of how certain themes contribute to the tragic nature of the play:
Tragic Heroism of Barabas:
- Barabas, the central character, exhibits traits often associated with tragic heroes. He is a complex figure with a fatal flaw—his unbridled ambition and greed. The audience witnesses his rise to power, the subsequent betrayal, and, ultimately, his downfall. Barabas's tragic flaw contributes to his own undoing, making him a character both captivating and pitiable.
Fate and Fortune:
- The play explores the themes of fate and fortune, suggesting that the events in Barabas's life are predetermined by external forces. Barabas's downfall appears to be fated, and his attempts to control his destiny only lead to more tragic consequences. The idea that individuals are subject to forces beyond their control is a common element in tragic literature.
Hubris and Nemesis:
- Barabas's hubris, or excessive pride and arrogance, is a key tragic element. His belief in his own cunning and ability to manipulate others contributes to his downfall. The concept of nemesis, the inescapable retribution for one's hubris, is evident in the unraveling of Barabas's carefully laid plans.
Isolation and Alienation:
- Tragic heroes often experience isolation and alienation from society. Barabas, as a Jew in a predominantly Christian society, faces discrimination and exclusion. His isolation intensifies as the plot unfolds, and he becomes increasingly estranged from others. This sense of alienation contributes to the pathos surrounding his character.
Inevitability of Tragedy:
- The play conveys a sense of inevitability regarding the tragic events. From the outset, Barabas's actions set in motion a chain of events that seem destined to end in tragedy. The audience is aware of the impending doom, creating a dramatic tension that is characteristic of tragic works.
Moral Ambiguity and Consequences:
- The moral ambiguity of the characters and their actions adds to the tragic dimension. Barabas's willingness to engage in deceit, manipulation, and violence blurs the lines between right and wrong. The consequences of these morally ambiguous choices contribute to the overall sense of tragedy in the play.
Catharsis:
- Tragedies often aim to evoke feelings of pity and fear in the audience, leading to a purging or cleansing of emotions, known as catharsis. Barabas's tragic journey, marked by betrayal, revenge, and his ultimate demise, serves to elicit emotional responses from the audience and prompts contemplation on the consequences of unchecked ambition.
Conflict and Betrayal:
- The play is replete with conflicts and betrayals, both personal and political. These elements heighten the dramatic tension and contribute to the tragic atmosphere. Betrayals, especially those suffered by Barabas, intensify the sense of pathos and sympathy for the tragic hero.
"The Jew of Malta" encapsulates the elements of classical tragedy, featuring a protagonist with a fatal flaw, a sense of inevitability, and a downward spiral into calamity. Marlowe's exploration of these themes adds depth and complexity to the tragic nature of the play, making it a compelling work in the realm of Elizabethan drama.
2. Character Sketch of Barabas
Answer:
Barabas is the central character in Christopher Marlowe's play "The Jew of Malta." He is a complex and intriguing figure whose character undergoes significant development throughout the play. Here is a character sketch of Barabas:
Background and Identity:
- Barabas is a Jewish merchant living in Malta, a predominantly Christian society. His religious identity becomes a significant aspect of his character, contributing to the themes of religious conflict and discrimination explored in the play.
Ambition and Greed:
- Barabas is driven by an insatiable desire for wealth and power. His ambition knows no bounds, and he engages in cunning and manipulative strategies to accumulate and safeguard his wealth. His actions are motivated primarily by a relentless pursuit of personal gain.
Machiavellian Cunning:
- Barabas exhibits traits of Machiavellianism, employing cunning and deceit to achieve his goals. He is highly intelligent and resourceful, using manipulation and strategic thinking to navigate the complex political and social landscape of Malta.
Betrayal and Revenge:
- The character of Barabas experiences betrayal early in the play when the governor of Malta seizes his wealth. This betrayal sets off a chain of events, leading Barabas to swear vengeance against those who wronged him. Revenge becomes a central motive for many of his subsequent actions.
Isolation and Alienation:
- Barabas faces social and religious discrimination due to his Jewish identity. This discrimination contributes to his sense of isolation and alienation from the Christian majority. Barabas's loneliness intensifies as the plot unfolds, adding a layer of pathos to his character.
Tragic Flaw:
- Barabas's tragic flaw is his unbridled ambition and greed. While these traits contribute to his initial success, they ultimately lead to his downfall. His inability to recognize the limits of his actions and the consequences of his ruthless pursuit of wealth serves as a classic tragic flaw.
Complex Morality:
- The character of Barabas introduces moral ambiguity into the play. While he is the victim of religious discrimination, his actions often defy conventional moral standards. Barabas's morality is shaped by the circumstances he faces, and his choices challenge the audience's understanding of good and evil.
Religious Identity:
- Barabas's Jewish identity is a crucial aspect of his character. It shapes his interactions with the Christian society of Malta and influences the way others perceive and treat him. The exploration of religious identity adds depth to the play's thematic exploration of religious intolerance.
Tragic Downfall:
- As the plot progresses, Barabas's fortunes take a tragic turn. His elaborate schemes and attempts at revenge lead to a series of unintended consequences. Barabas's downfall is marked by loss, betrayal, and ultimately, his own demise.
Psychological Complexity:
- Barabas's character is psychologically complex, and Marlowe provides insight into his thoughts and motivations through soliloquies. This complexity allows the audience to engage with Barabas's internal struggles and conflicting emotions.
Barabas stands as a memorable and multifaceted character in Elizabethan drama. His portrayal captures the complexities of human nature, the consequences of unchecked ambition, and the challenges faced by individuals in a society marked by religious and social tensions.
3. Discuss The Jew of Malta as a tragedy
Answer:
"The Jew of Malta" by Christopher Marlowe is often considered a tragic play, exhibiting key elements of classical tragedy. Here are some aspects that characterize "The Jew of Malta" as a tragedy:
Tragic Hero:
- The play features Barabas as a tragic hero. He is a complex character whose downfall is the result of a fatal flaw—in this case, unbridled ambition and greed. Barabas's journey from wealth and influence to his ultimate demise is central to the tragic narrative.
Fatal Flaw:
- Barabas's fatal flaw is his insatiable desire for wealth and power. This flaw leads him to engage in deceit, manipulation, and betrayal, setting in motion a series of tragic events that contribute to his downfall.
Reversal of Fortune:
- The play follows the classical structure of a tragedy, including a reversal of fortune for the protagonist. Barabas, once a wealthy and influential figure, experiences a dramatic fall from grace due to the unfolding events and his own actions.
Catharsis:
- "The Jew of Malta" aims to evoke a sense of catharsis in the audience. The tragic events and the downfall of Barabas elicit feelings of pity and fear, prompting reflection on the consequences of unchecked ambition and the complexities of human nature.
Complex Morality:
- The play explores the ambiguity of morality, challenging conventional notions of good and evil. Barabas, while a victim of religious discrimination, engages in morally questionable actions, blurring the lines between right and wrong.
Hubris and Nemesis:
- Barabas's hubris, or excessive pride and arrogance, contributes to his downfall. His belief in his own cunning and ability to manipulate others leads to his ultimate nemesis—the inescapable retribution for his actions.
Tragic Plot and Events:
- The narrative is marked by a series of tragic events, including betrayals, deaths, and the ultimate demise of the central character. The plot unfolds in a way that intensifies the emotional impact on the audience, adhering to the conventions of tragic storytelling.
Conflict and Resolution:
- The play revolves around conflicts—religious, political, and personal—that drive the tragic narrative. The resolution of these conflicts, often in unexpected and tragic ways, contributes to the overall sense of tragedy.
Irony and Satire:
- Marlowe uses irony and satire to critique societal norms and values. The play's ironic situations and satirical commentary contribute to its tragicomic tone, emphasizing the flaws and contradictions in human behavior.
Downfall Due to External and Internal Forces:
- Barabas's downfall is a result of both external forces, such as the actions of the governor and the Turkish threat, and internal forces, particularly his own Machiavellian schemes and moral choices.
"The Jew of Malta" stands as a compelling example of Elizabethan tragedy, exploring themes of power, revenge, discrimination, and the consequences of human actions. Barabas's tragic journey and the intricate plotting of the play contribute to its enduring status as a tragic masterpiece.
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