Showing results for "Ben Jonson" in Comedy & Humor

Step into the world of Volpone, a captivating comedy by Ben Jonson, first staged in 1606. This sharp satire unravels the themes of greed and lust, and stands as Jonsons most frequently performed play, representing the pinnacle of Jacobean comedy. The story revolves around Volpone, a wealthy Venetian gentleman feigning death to ensnare his fortune-hungry heirs—Voltore, Corbaccio, and Corvino. Each arrives at his lavish home with extravagant gifts, eager to secure their place in Volpones will. With the cunning persuasion of Mosca, Volpone’s clever servant, the duplicitous game unfolds, ...

Following the success of Jonsons Every Man In His Humour, Every Man Out of His Humour presents a delightful blend of satire and wit. While its plot may seem light, it serves as a vibrant caricature of the societal norms of Jonsons time, delivered through sharp dialogue and a fierce sense of indignation at literary pretensions. This play elevates the art of dramatic satire, drawing inspiration from the classical ideals of comedy and echoing the brilliance of Aristophanes. Prepare for a captivating exploration of character and humor that remains timeless.

In this captivating tale, Knowell, an aging gentleman rumored to have been portrayed by Shakespeare himself, seeks to uncover the secrets of his potentially wayward son. Meanwhile, merchant Kitely is consumed by paranoia over being cuckolded by his wife, and the tension only escalates with the arrival of a host of colorful characters. Will their insecurities and whims lead to chaos or clarity? Join us for a humorous exploration of human folly, expertly summarized by ToddHW.

Volpone, or The Fox by Ben Jonson. Volpone is a comedy by Ben Jonson first produced in 1606, drawing on elements of city comedy and beast fable. A merciless satire of greed and lust, it remains Jonson's most-performed play, and it is among the finest Jacobean Era comedies. Volpone is a Venetian gentleman who pretends to be on his deathbed, after a long illness, in order to dupe Voltore, Corbaccio, and Corvino, three men who aspire to inherit his fortune. In their turns, each man arrives to Volpone’s house bearing a luxurious gift, intent upon having his name inscribed to the will of ...

Cynthias Revels, a captivating comical satire first performed in 1600, offers an intricate tapestry of wit and humor that surpasses its predecessor, Every Man Out of His Humour. This play delves deep into personal satire, showcasing a plethora of remarkable caricatures and sharp, insightful dialogue. While the central theme of a fountain of self-love may not be fully realized, the characters occasionally drift into abstraction and allegory, creating a unique theatrical experience. Join us as we explore this fascinating work! - Summary by Prof. Felix E. Schelling

In the midst of a plague outbreak in London, the gentleman Lovewit retreats to the countryside, leaving his house under the dubious care of his crafty butler, Jeremy. Seizing the chance, Jeremy adopts the guise of Captain Face and recruits the help of Subtle, a cunning conman, and Dol Common, a streetwise prostitute. In The Alchemist, Jonson boldly satirizes the follies and vices of humanity, particularly the gullibility fueled by greed. Through the lens of characters from all walks of life, Jonson exposes the absurdity of human weakness, especially in the face of enticing promises like youth ...