Christopher Marlowe as poet and playwright was at the forefront of the 16th Century dramatic renaissance, a man to whom Shakespeare and others owe a huge debt of gratitude. He also led a full and intriguing life outside the theatre. Entangled in the outer reaches of the Elizabethan espionage web, Marlowe’s life is alleged to have ended prematurely in 1593 when, at just 29, he was reportedly stabbed to death in Deptford. Learn more about his life.