1. Themes
Shakespeare's plays explore a wide range of themes, including love, loss, power, ambition, and betrayal. Marlowe's plays, on the other hand, tend to focus more on violence, revenge, and the supernatural.
2. Characters
Shakespeare's characters are often complex and multifaceted, with both strengths and weaknesses. Marlowe's characters, on the other hand, are often more one-dimensional, with a clear distinction between good and evil.
3. Language
Shakespeare's language is known for its beauty, richness, and complexity. He uses a wide range of rhetorical devices, such as metaphor, simile, and personification. Marlowe's language, on the other hand, is more straightforward and direct, with a focus on clarity and impact.
4. Structure
Shakespeare's plays are often structured around a central conflict, which is resolved through a series of events. Marlowe's plays, on the other hand, are often more episodic, with a series of loosely connected scenes.
5. Influence
Shakespeare's work has had a profound and lasting impact on Western literature and culture. He is considered one of the greatest writers in the English language. Marlowe's work, while not as influential as Shakespeare's, is still highly regarded for its power and originality.
In conclusion, while Shakespeare and Marlowe were both masters of the Elizabethan theater, their works differ in terms of themes, characters, language, structure, and influence. Shakespeare's plays are more complex and explore a wider range of human experiences, while Marlowe's plays are more focused on violence, revenge, and the supernatural.