Edward II does not fit easily into any genre – it is more a mixture of types. Discuss.

Edward II is a play involving many issues. Through Marlowe’s integration of the language, characters and theme, each of the five genres employed can be recognised. Edward II has various themes and the language used to portray them is fairly consistent. The purpose of this essay is to analyse the extent to which each genre: The Revenge Tragedy, The Tragedy, The Machiavellian Play, The Morality Play and The History Play – appears in the play and how well (if they do) fit one or more of them. I will begin by showing how it fits into each genre.
As far as the Jacobean motif of the revenge tragedy goes, many of the common characteristics can be identified in Edward II. It could seem to fit quite closely with this genre. In the revenge tragedy there is often an awareness of rottenness and corruption in the state. A dim view of life is taken and society - or in terms of Edward II, the court is presented as callous and dissembling. These features are greatly evident in the play, firs...