Edward II (play) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Edward II |
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Title page of a 1594 edition
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| Written by | Christopher Marlowe |
| Characters | King Edward II Queen Isabella Piers Gaveston Mortimer |
| Date of premiere | 1580s |
| Place of premiere | London, England |
| Original language | English |
| Subject | Regicide |
| Genre | History play |
| Setting | England |
Edward II is a famous play written by Christopher Marlowe. It is known as a history play because it tells a story based on real events from the past. The play was likely written around 1590. Marlowe probably got his information from a history book called Holinshed's Chronicles. The story is all about the challenges faced by King Edward II of England and how he lost his power.
Contents
Understanding the Play Edward II
This play is a historical drama that explores the life of King Edward II. It shows the struggles he faced as a ruler. The play also looks at the powerful people around him.
Who Was Christopher Marlowe?
Christopher Marlowe was an important English writer. He lived from 1564 to 1593. He was a playwright and a poet. Marlowe was a very popular writer during his time. He wrote many plays before William Shakespeare became famous.
When Was Edward II Written?
Experts believe Edward II was written around 1590. This was during a time called the Elizabethan era. It was a period when theater was very popular in England. Many new plays were being created.
What is a History Play?
A history play is a type of drama. It tells a story based on real historical events. These plays often feature kings, queens, and important political moments. They help audiences learn about the past. Edward II focuses on a real English king.
The Story of King Edward II
The play tells the story of King Edward II of England. He ruled from 1307 to 1327. The play shows his relationships with his nobles. It also shows the conflicts that led to him losing his throne. The play explores themes of power and leadership.
Key Characters in the Play
- King Edward II: The main character, the King of England.
- Queen Isabella: Edward's wife, who becomes unhappy with his rule.
- Piers Gaveston: A close friend of the King.
- Mortimer: A powerful noble who challenges the King's authority.
Where Did Marlowe Get His Information?
Marlowe used a book called Holinshed's Chronicles as his main source. This book was a large history of England, Scotland, and Ireland. It was first published in 1577. Many writers of that time used it for historical details.
Images for kids
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Title page of the earliest published text of Edward II (1594)
See also
In Spanish: Eduardo II (obra de teatro) para niños
