Edmund, Earl of Kent Character Analysis

Kent is Edward II's brother, and thus spends much of the play torn between loyalty to his family and loyalty to England. Kent initially condemns the English nobles for voicing their dissatisfaction with Edward and Gaveston's relationship; in fact, he considers their open opposition to Edward's actions treasonous and urges his brother to have them executed. At the same time, Kent himself is clearly disturbed by the king's decisions and repeatedly tries to steer him toward a more prudent course of action (e.g. avoiding upsetting the Pope by attacking the Bishop of Coventry). As time goes on and it becomes increasingly clear that Gaveston's voice is the only one Edward will listen to, Kent's absolute allegiance to his brother wavers, and he eventually joins the nobles in rebellion—an action he later comes to regret as an unjustifiable betrayal of his own blood. Kent ultimately attempts to return to his brother's side but is arrested and executed by Mortimer and Isabella. Kent is thus a major vehicle for Marlowe to explore issues related to legitimacy and loyalty.