Scholars conclude beyond doubt Shakespeare was main author of Edward III, with Marlowe alongside

A case for joint authorship

The study was carried out by Loughnane, a University of Kent reader in early modern studies, and Brett Greatley-Hirsch, a University of Leeds professor of Renaissance literature and textual studies. Loughnane also serves as general editor of the Oxford Marlowe editorial project.

Loughnane said the research identifies both playwrights in Edward III, presenting a new case for Marlowe as Shakespeare’s collaborator. The play was published anonymously in 1596, while the researchers place their collaboration in 1592.

How researchers assessed the play

Instead of assigning individual lines to either writer, the researchers examined linguistic patterns and the use of distinctive words. They considered “martial,” for example, a word common in Marlowe’s plays but unusual in works by other dramatists. The analysis identified passages associated with each playwright, while acknowledging that their contributions may overlap. It also attributed a speech in the final scene to Marlowe, beginning, “Great servitor to bloody Mars in arms.”

Links to earlier findings

The researchers say the proposed work on Edward III suggests the two writers worked together over a longer period. Loughnane connected the finding to a 2016 study that identified Marlowe as a co-author of Shakespeare’s three Henry VI plays.

That earlier work and the new analysis, Loughnane said, point to a sustained writing relationship during the playwrights’ mid-to-late twenties. The research is due to appear in Shakespeare Quarterly later this year.

Further work on Shakespeare

Loughnane’s forthcoming book, Shakespeare at Thirty, also examines Shakespeare’s early career. Princeton University Press is scheduled to publish it this week.