"Volpone; Or, The Fox" by Ben Jonson is an early 17th-century play known for its importance in English drama. This funny story centers on Volpone, a clever nobleman who pretends he's sick to trick people who want to inherit his money. Set in Venice, the play shows characters motivated by greed, lies, and a desire for power. The play starts by introducing Volpone and his smart servant, Mosca. Volpone acts like he's dying to attract suitors like dishonest lawyers and greedy merchants, who try to win his favor with compliments and presents, hoping for a share of his fortune. As each character appears, desperate for Volpone’s wealth, Mosca skillfully controls the situation, preparing for comical schemes involving love and betrayal. Jonson's humor and insights into human weaknesses are clear, creating a satirical look at greed and right and wrong in society.
Volpone; Or, The Fox
By Ben Jonson
In a city of masks and fortunes, a sly master and his servant weave a web of deception, luring greedy souls with the promise of wealth, only to expose their foolish desires.
Summary
About the AuthorBenjamin Jonson was an English playwright and poet. Jonson's artistry exerted a lasting influence on English poetry and stage comedy. He popularised the comedy of humours; he is best known for the satirical plays Every Man in His Humour (1598), Volpone, or The Fox, The Alchemist (1610) and Bartholomew Fair (1614) and for his lyric and epigrammatic poetry. He is regarded as "the second most important English dramatist, after William Shakespeare, during the reign of James I."
Benjamin Jonson was an English playwright and poet. Jonson's artistry exerted a lasting influence on English poetry and stage comedy. He popularised the comedy of humours; he is best known for the satirical plays Every Man in His Humour (1598), Volpone, or The Fox, The Alchemist (1610) and Bartholomew Fair (1614) and for his lyric and epigrammatic poetry. He is regarded as "the second most important English dramatist, after William Shakespeare, during the reign of James I."
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