Volpone

Ben Jonson

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Author Description

One of a series designed to provide a new, accessible approach to the works of great poets and playwrights. Each text includes general notes on the text; discussion of themes, issues and context; and suggestions for further reading.

Menrva's Summary

THE PULSE

A wealthy, childless Venetian nobleman feigns a terminal illness to manipulate greedy acquaintances into showering him with gifts in hopes of becoming his sole heir. Volpone, the cunning protagonist, orchestrates an elaborate ruse alongside his servant, Mosca, to exploit the avarice of his neighbors. As the deception deepens, the pair faces increasing pressure from the very people they seek to swindle, leading to a complex web of legal and moral entanglements. The narrative unfolds through a structured play format, utilizing sharp dialogue and rapid-fire wit to expose the corruption inherent in the pursuit of wealth. The world is defined by the rigid social hierarchies of Renaissance Venice, where status and inheritance dictate the actions of all characters.

INSIDE THE PAGES

Use of the beast fable archetype to represent human vices
Satirical exploration of greed and social climbing
Rapid, rhythmic dialogue characteristic of Jacobean comedy
Complex subplots involving legal corruption and moral decay
Dramatic irony as the primary engine of the plot
Exploration of the relationship between master and servant
Vivid depiction of Venetian high society and its moral failings
Use of soliloquies to reveal the inner machinations of the protagonist

THE COLLECTIVE ECHO

Discussion often centers on the play's biting critique of human nature and the effectiveness of its satirical tone. Readers frequently highlight the intricate relationship between Volpone and Mosca, noting how their dynamic drives the pacing of the narrative. Critics often examine the balance between the comedic elements and the darker, more cynical themes regarding wealth and morality. The play remains a staple in academic settings due to its linguistic complexity and its enduring relevance in discussions about greed. Many readers find the resolution of the plot to be a stark reflection of the consequences of unchecked ambition.

Page Count:
314

Publication Date:
2012-03-29

Publisher:
Oxford University Press, USA

ISBN-10:
0199129576

ISBN-13:
9780199129577

Drama

Satire

Renaissance

Dramas & Plays

Comedy

British & Irish

Plays