Shakespeare, Marlowe, and Traces of Authorship

Abstract

This essay analyses the documentary evidence identifying Shakespeare and Marlowe as co-authors of the Henry VI plays and the alternative versions of parts 2 and 3. Drawing together studies in attribution, anonymity, biography, and the book trade, the essay offers a chronological analysis of various forms of evidence. In doing so, it seeks to situate and contextualise the early anonymous publication of the alternative versions, while providing external documentary support for the internal attribution evidence linking Shakespeare and Marlowe to these plays.