Ben Jonson

Definition

Ben Jonson was a prominent English playwright and poet during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, known for his sharp wit and satirical works. His plays often explored themes of human behavior and social issues, contrasting with the romanticism of Shakespeare's works. Jonson was a leading figure in Elizabethan theater, contributing to the development of comedy and the use of classical elements in English drama.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ben Jonson was appointed as Poet Laureate of England in 1616, an honor that recognized his significant contributions to literature.
2. He is known for coining the phrase 'the art itself is in the play,' emphasizing the importance of structure and craft in drama.
3. Jonson's works often contained moral lessons, using satire to criticize social norms and human follies.
4. He had a tumultuous relationship with Shakespeare, often seen as his rival but also someone he respected for his talents.
5. His influence extended beyond his lifetime, impacting later playwrights and shaping the future of English theater.

Review Questions

• How did Ben Jonson's style differ from that of his contemporary William Shakespeare?
  • Ben Jonson's style was characterized by sharp wit and a focus on satire, often addressing social issues and human behaviors, while Shakespeare's works tended to explore broader themes of love and tragedy. Jonson's plays employed a structured comedic form known as the Comedy of Humours, where characters represented specific traits based on bodily humours. This focus on character types and societal critique set Jonson apart from Shakespeare's more romanticized and nuanced storytelling.
• Evaluate the significance of Jonson's work 'The Alchemist' in the context of Elizabethan theater.
  • 'The Alchemist' is considered one of Ben Jonson's masterpieces, showcasing his ability to blend humor with commentary on human greed and folly. The play features a tight plot structure, witty dialogue, and vivid characters that exemplify Jonson's mastery of comedic form. Its success reflected the audience's appetite for satire during this period and solidified Jonson's reputation as a leading playwright in Elizabethan theater.
• Analyze how Ben Jonson's contributions to theater influenced future generations of playwrights.
  • Ben Jonson's contributions to theater significantly shaped the landscape for future playwrights by introducing innovative comedic structures and emphasizing character types based on human traits. His use of satire not only critiqued society but also established a model for incorporating moral lessons into entertainment. This approach influenced subsequent generations, leading to the development of modern comedy and establishing expectations for character depth and thematic exploration in plays that are still relevant today.

Related terms

Comedy of Humours: A style of comedy that Jonson popularized, based on the theory of bodily humours, which suggested that an individual's personality was influenced by bodily fluids.

The Alchemist: One of Jonson's most famous plays, showcasing his mastery of comic structure and character development, centered around deception and greed.

Masque: A form of entertainment combining poetry, music, and dance, which Jonson elevated to high art, particularly during the reign of James I.