The Jew of Malta

Book Details

• Author: Christopher Marlowe

• Brand: Bloomsbury Publishing India

• Binding: Paperback

• Number of Pages: 176

• ISBN: 9789384052485

• Languages: English

About the Book

The Jew of Malta, written around 1590 by Christopher Marlowe, is a provocative and dynamic play that shifts across multiple genres, from sharp satire to bloody revenge tragedy, melodramatic intrigue, dark farce, and grotesque comedy. Set on the Mediterranean island of Malta, the play explores the complex dynamics of power, religion, and vengeance, all while touching on pressing social issues that resonate with contemporary audiences.

At the heart of the play is Barabas, a wealthy and powerful Jewish merchant, who becomes a tragic figure as he is ruthlessly deprived of his wealth and property by the Christian Governor of Malta. This expropriation, justified by the Governor's hypocritical use of scripture, sparks Barabas's descent into a path of horrific revenge, marked by gruesome methods such as poisoned soup and flowers. His violent retribution transcends simple vengeance, weaving a dark tapestry of treachery and dark humor.

The play also delves into the complex themes of anti-Semitism, exploring Barabas’s character and his plight within the context of Elizabethan tensions surrounding the foreign merchant class. Marlowe’s treatment of these themes remains a subject of scholarly reflection, particularly in comparison with Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice, as both plays grapple with issues of religious and racial prejudices.

This student edition of The Jew of Malta includes a detailed introduction, providing background information on Marlowe, the historical context, and critical interpretations, along with a modern spelling version of the playtext. It is an essential resource for anyone studying this influential work and Marlowe's legacy in English literature.