Identifying the Jacobean Political Satire

The question describes a specific Jacobean play known for its political satire. Key elements include:

• Allegory: The Black King and his men represent Spain and the Jesuits, while the White Knight represents Prince Charles (later Charles I).
• Plot: The play depicts a chess game where Spain/Jesuits are "checkmated" by Prince Charles.
• Context: It was staged at the Globe Theatre, caused a stir due to its political commentary, leading to a protest from the Spanish ambassador and suppression by King James I.

Play Analysis

Based on these characteristics, the play in question is Thomas Middleton's 'A Game at Chess'. Written in 1624, it was a thinly veiled allegory commenting on the failed Spanish Match (Prince Charles's proposed marriage to the Spanish Infanta Maria Anna) and the perceived threat of Catholicism and Spanish influence in England. Its bold political commentary led to its immediate closure after a short, successful run due to diplomatic pressure and royal command.

The other options do not fit the description:

• The Wonderful Yeare is a pamphlet, not a play with this plot.
• A King and No King by Beaumont and Fletcher is a tragicomedy with a different theme.
• The Knight of the Burning Pestle by Beaumont and Fletcher is a satire but focuses on different targets (ridiculing romance plots and citizen theatre).