King John discussion

Does anyone else think that this play is one of Shakespeare's most underrated plays?

I agree. I've always been drawn to it, thought I've never been lucky enough to see a production of it. Interesting characters, in some ways early versions of characters he went on to develop more successfully in later plays. But I'd love to see a good production of it. That beautiful speech of Constance mourning the death of her son- lovely.

It is a very strange play and quite unlike his other histories. In fact, it reminded me of Marlowe's Edward II. In fact, I'd say John is Shakespeare's most Marlowe-esque work.

That's a very trenchant and helpful observation....