Moral hypocrisy

Definition

Moral hypocrisy refers to the phenomenon where individuals or groups publicly profess moral standards and values but fail to adhere to them in their actions. This disconnect between beliefs and behavior often serves to protect one's self-image or social standing while condemning others for similar or lesser transgressions. In the context of satirical comedy, this concept is particularly significant as it highlights the comedic tension between societal norms and individual behaviors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Moral hypocrisy is a central theme in Ben Jonson's satirical works, where characters often espouse high moral ideals while acting immorally themselves.
2. In Jonson's plays, moral hypocrisy is used to critique societal norms and the flawed nature of human behavior, providing audiences with both humor and reflection.
3. The comedic elements surrounding moral hypocrisy create a space for audiences to laugh at the absurdity of characters who fail to recognize their own faults.
4. Jonson's portrayal of moral hypocrisy can serve as a mirror for the audience, prompting them to reflect on their own values and actions in contrast to societal expectations.
5. Satirical comedy often relies on moral hypocrisy to drive conflict and tension within the narrative, allowing for deeper commentary on ethics and morality in society.

Review Questions

• How does Ben Jonson use moral hypocrisy in his satirical comedy to develop character and plot?
  • Ben Jonson skillfully employs moral hypocrisy to develop complex characters who reveal their flaws through contradictory behaviors. For instance, characters may publicly condemn vice while engaging in similar actions themselves. This duality not only drives the plot forward by creating conflict but also enriches the narrative by allowing audiences to witness the absurdity of human nature, making them question their own moral standings.
• In what ways does Jonson’s portrayal of moral hypocrisy reflect the societal values of his time?
  • Jonson's portrayal of moral hypocrisy mirrors the societal values of early 17th-century England, where public morality often clashed with private behavior. By satirizing characters who fail to live up to their professed ideals, Jonson highlights the discrepancy between societal expectations and actual conduct. This reflects a broader cultural critique that encourages audiences to scrutinize the authenticity of public morality during a time marked by religious and social upheaval.
• Evaluate how moral hypocrisy functions as both a comedic device and a serious commentary on human nature in Jonson’s work.
  • In Jonson's work, moral hypocrisy operates on two levels: as a comedic device that generates laughter through absurd contradictions, and as a serious commentary on human nature's tendency to prioritize self-interest over integrity. This duality invites audiences to engage with the material not just for entertainment but also for introspection about their own ethical dilemmas. By blending humor with critique, Jonson effectively prompts a deeper understanding of morality and the complexities of human behavior.

Related terms

Satire:

A genre of literature and performing arts that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, society, or politics.

Irony: A literary device that presents a discrepancy between expectation and reality, often highlighting contradictions in behavior or thought.

Hypocrisy: The practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one's own behavior does not conform.