Christopher Marlowe (26 February 1564 (baptised) – 30 May 1593) was an English dramatist, poet and translator of the Elizabethan era. Marlowe was the foremost Elizabethan tragedian until his mysterious early death. Marlowe greatly influenced William Shakespeare, who was born in the same year as Marlowe and who rose to become the eminent Elizabethan playwright after Marlowe’s death. Marlowe’s plays are known for the use of blank verse, and their overreaching protagonists.

A warrant was issued for Marlowe’s arrest on 18 May 1593. No reason for it was given, though it was thought to be connected to allegations of blasphemy—a manuscript believed to have been written by Marlowe was said to contain vile heretical conceipts”. On 20 May he was brought to the court to attend upon the Privy Council for questioning. There is no record of their having met that day