Final answer:
Christopher Marlowe was rumored to be a playwright, a spy, and a mathematician during his lifetime, contributing significantly to the Elizabethan era with works like 'Dr. Faustus' and potentially being involved in espionage.
Step-by-step explanation:
During his time, Christopher Marlowe was rumored to be all of the above: a playwright, a spy, and a mathematician. Known for his eloquent prose style and significant subject matter, Marlowe was a contemporary of William Shakespeare and a key figure during the Elizabethan era. His notable works include The Jew of Malta, Dr. Faustus, and Edward II. Though his life was cut short at the age of 29, his contributions to literature were significant. Additionally, there were rumors and some evidence suggesting that Marlowe may have been involved in espionage, which, along with his writing, meant that he was indeed familiar with the spy culture of the time.