Volpone

Definition

Volpone is a comedic play written by Ben Jonson in the early 17th century that satirizes greed and the pursuit of wealth. The title character, a wealthy con artist, pretends to be on his deathbed to trick his greedy associates into giving him gifts in hopes of inheriting his fortune. This play reflects key aspects of Renaissance theater, particularly its focus on human nature and social commentary through clever dialogue and intricate plots.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Volpone was first performed in 1606 and is considered one of Ben Jonson's greatest works, showcasing his sharp wit and understanding of human nature.
2. The play's structure is characterized by its intricate plotting and the use of disguise and deception, reflecting the theme of appearances versus reality.
3. Volpone's main character embodies the archetype of the trickster, using manipulation to expose the vices of those around him while simultaneously critiquing societal greed.
4. The character of Mosca serves as Volpone's cunning assistant, demonstrating themes of loyalty and betrayal as he navigates the world of deceit.
5. The play ends with a moral lesson about the consequences of greed and dishonesty, reinforcing the idea that vice will ultimately be punished.

Review Questions

• How does Volpone use humor and satire to critique societal values during the Renaissance?
  • Volpone employs humor and satire by exaggerating the flaws of its characters who are driven by greed. The interactions between Volpone and his duped associates illustrate how their selfish desires lead them to absurd situations, making a mockery of their ambition for wealth. This comedic approach allows Jonson to comment on the moral decay of society while keeping audiences entertained.
• Discuss the significance of disguise and deception in Volpone's plot structure and character development.
  • Disguise and deception are crucial elements in Volpone's plot as they drive both the action and character interactions. Volpone pretends to be dying to manipulate those around him into revealing their true intentions. This not only develops his character as a cunning trickster but also highlights the theme of appearance versus reality. The clever use of disguises showcases how characters are often not who they seem, leading to unexpected twists in the story.
• Evaluate how Ben Jonson's portrayal of greed in Volpone reflects broader themes in Renaissance theater and literature.
  • Ben Jonson's portrayal of greed in Volpone reflects broader themes in Renaissance theater by emphasizing human flaws through satire and moral lessons. The play critiques the obsession with wealth that was prevalent during this period, mirroring concerns seen in other works of literature that explore ambition, corruption, and morality. By exposing these vices through his characters' actions, Jonson contributes to a larger conversation about ethics and society during a time when economic changes were reshaping lives.

Related terms

Commedia dell'arte: An early form of professional theater characterized by improvisation and the use of stock characters, which influenced the comedic style seen in works like Volpone.

Satire: A literary genre that uses humor, irony, or ridicule to criticize or mock social customs, politics, or individual behavior, which is a central element in Volpone.

Masques: Theatrical performances featuring music and elaborate staging, often celebrating nobility and morality, popular during the Renaissance and contributing to the theatrical context of plays like Volpone.