Ben Jonson

Definition

Ben Jonson was a prominent English playwright, poet, and actor during the Renaissance, known for his satirical plays and for being a contemporary of William Shakespeare. He played a key role in shaping English drama, emphasizing character development and social commentary through his work. His influence extended beyond theater as he also contributed to poetry and critical theory in literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ben Jonson was appointed as the Poet Laureate of England in 1616, becoming one of the first individuals to hold this title.
2. He introduced the idea of using classical unities—unity of time, place, and action—into English drama, which was a significant departure from earlier styles.
3. Jonson's works often contained sharp social critiques and were known for their moral lessons, showcasing the complexities of human nature.
4. He had a famous rivalry with Shakespeare, leading to debates over their respective contributions to literature and theater.
5. Jonson's use of language was marked by its wit and eloquence, setting a standard for later playwrights and influencing the development of English drama.

Review Questions

• How did Ben Jonson's approach to character development in his plays differ from that of his contemporaries?
  • Ben Jonson focused heavily on character development through the lens of the 'humours' concept, where each character represented a specific trait influenced by bodily fluids. This method allowed him to create complex individuals who served as reflections of society. In contrast, other playwrights like Shakespeare often emphasized universal themes and emotions, showcasing more dynamic characters that evolved throughout their stories.
• What are the main themes present in Jonson's play 'Volpone' and how do they reflect the societal attitudes of the Renaissance?
  • 'Volpone' explores themes such as greed, deception, and the corrupting influence of wealth. The play satirizes the gullibility of society and critiques moral decay by highlighting how characters will go to great lengths for riches. These themes resonate with Renaissance attitudes towards commerce and morality, revealing anxieties about the burgeoning capitalist society emerging during this period.
• Evaluate Ben Jonson's lasting impact on English theater and literature, particularly regarding his innovations in dramatic structure.
  • Ben Jonson's innovations significantly shaped English theater by introducing classical unities into playwriting and emphasizing moral and social commentary within his works. His distinct style influenced not only his contemporaries but also future generations of playwrights. By blending elements of humor with serious thematic concerns, Jonson set a precedent for complexity in character portrayals and narrative structure that became foundational for modern drama.

Related terms

Masque: A form of courtly entertainment that combined poetry, music, and dance, often featuring elaborate costumes and staging, popular during the Renaissance and associated with Jonson's works.

Comedy of Humours: A genre of comedy developed by Jonson that focuses on characters driven by specific personality traits or 'humours,' reflecting a balance of bodily fluids believed to influence behavior.

Volpone:

One of Jonson's most famous plays, it is a dark comedy about greed and deception, centered around the character Volpone, who feigns illness to con his wealthy friends.