The Shadow of Desire: Homoeroticism and Identity in Marlowe's Edward II
The Shadow of Desire: Homoeroticism and Identity in Marlowe's Edward II article by N.VIJAYAKUMAR M.A., M.Phil., Christopher Marlowe's Edward II stands as a powerful and complex exploration of kingship, power, and desire in the late Elizabethan era. While the play undeniably depicts the political machinations and turbulent reign of Edward II, it also offers a groundbreaking and nuanced portrayal of homoerotic desire and its profound impact on the king's identity, his relationships, and ultimately, his downfall. Far from simply labeling Edward as a "homosexual" in a modern sense, Marlowe delves into the complexities of same-sex attraction within a historical context that viewed such desires with suspicion and condemnation. The play navigates the treacherous terrain of forbidden love, exploring how it shapes Edward's sense of self, his political decisions, and his tragic fate. This essay will examine the multifaceted representation of homoeroticism in Edward I...