Volpone

Definition

Volpone is a comedic play written by Ben Jonson in 1606, centered around the themes of greed and deception. The title character, Volpone, is a wealthy conman who feigns illness to trick his greedy heirs into showering him with gifts, hoping to inherit his fortune. This play highlights the moral consequences of avarice and serves as a critique of the corrupt nature of society during the English Renaissance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Volpone' showcases the clever use of wit and language, with characters engaging in intricate wordplay that enhances both the comedic and critical aspects of the play.
2. The character of Mosca serves as Volpone's cunning servant, embodying themes of manipulation and betrayal while also reflecting on class dynamics within society.
3. The play was part of Jonson's broader commentary on societal values, particularly how greed corrupts relationships and leads to moral degradation.
4. Volpone's feigned illness and elaborate schemes reveal the lengths individuals will go to for wealth, resonating with audiences during a time when social status was closely tied to financial success.
5. Jonson's use of satire in 'Volpone' criticizes not just individual characters but also the societal norms of his time, making it a significant work in English Renaissance theatre.

Review Questions

• How does Ben Jonson use comedy in 'Volpone' to critique societal values related to greed?
  • 'Volpone' employs humor through witty dialogue and absurd situations to expose the folly of its characters' greed. By showcasing the lengths to which Volpone and his heirs go to secure wealth, Jonson emphasizes how this obsession leads to their downfall. The comedic elements serve not just to entertain but also to deliver a sharp critique on the moral decay present in society during the English Renaissance.
• Discuss the role of deception in 'Volpone' and how it contributes to character development and plot progression.
  • Deception is central to 'Volpone,' driving both the plot and character interactions. Volpone's masquerade as a dying man sets off a chain reaction where each character attempts to outwit one another for his fortune. This leads to intricate schemes and betrayals that reveal deeper motivations and flaws within each character. As they engage in deceit, their true natures are exposed, illustrating how ambition can corrupt even those who appear virtuous.
• Evaluate how 'Volpone' reflects the tensions between social classes during the English Renaissance and its implications for contemporary audiences.
  • 'Volpone' vividly captures the social hierarchies of its time, illustrating how wealth influences power dynamics among different classes. The interactions between Volpone, his heirs, and Mosca highlight class tensions, as those with financial means wield significant control over those without. For contemporary audiences, this theme resonates as it mirrors modern issues related to economic disparity and moral questions surrounding wealth accumulation. Jonson’s work encourages reflection on societal values that persist across time.

Related terms

Commedia dell'arte: A form of Italian theatrical performance characterized by improvised dialogue and a cast of stock characters, influencing many playwrights, including Jonson.

Allegory: A narrative that uses symbolic figures and actions to convey deeper moral or political meanings, a technique used in 'Volpone' to illustrate themes of greed.

Masques: Theatrical entertainments popular in the Renaissance that combined music, dance, and elaborate staging, reflecting the opulence of the era and influencing Jonson's works.