A wealthy, childless Venetian nobleman feigns a terminal illness to manipulate greedy acquaintances into showering him with gifts in hopes of becoming his heir. Volpone, aided by his cunning servant Mosca, orchestrates a series of elaborate deceptions that expose the moral corruption and avarice of his social circle. As the schemes grow increasingly complex, the protagonists must navigate the logical constraints of Venetian law and the unpredictable nature of their own greed. The narrative unfolds through a structured dramatic framework, utilizing sharp dialogue and rapid-fire wit to propel the action toward an inevitable collapse of the charade.

Discussion often centers on the play's enduring relevance as a biting satire of human greed and social hypocrisy. Readers frequently highlight the effectiveness of the character dynamics, particularly the symbiotic yet volatile relationship between Volpone and Mosca. Critics often note the balance between the comedic elements of the farce and the darker, cynical undercurrents that permeate the Venetian setting. The play is widely regarded for its linguistic precision and the intricate construction of its central deception, which continues to serve as a benchmark for satirical drama. Many scholars emphasize how the work functions as a critique of the moral vacuum created by unchecked materialism.