Ben Jonson & Volpone

As you read Volpone, try to compare it with the other Renaissance plays that we’ve read: Twelfth Night
and The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus. Jonson’s literary career lasted farther into the Renaissance,
as he lived longer than Shakespeare or Marlowe, but the reality of the theater, and the tastes of its
audience were essentially the same for all 3 playwrights. The observations we made about the theater in
our discussion of Shakespeare also apply to Jonson.

It might seem odd to us today, but the fans of these playwrights were very tribal in their loyalties, not
unlike fanatical sports fans. The fans of Jonson, particularly, were sufficiently vocal about their chosen
favorite so as to become known as the Tribe of Ben, or the Sons of Ben.

There was a one-sided rivalry between Jonson and Shakespeare. While Shakespeare seems to have
made no significant public comments about Jonson, Jonson was very critical of Shakespeare’s works. In
fairness, Jonson probably knew Shakespeare better than most, as he acted in one of Shakespeare’s
plays. After Shakespeare’s death, however, Jonson’s tone completely changed, and his praise for
Shakespeare was immense.

You can find much more information about Jonson here:

https://www.nosweatshakespeare.com/resources/era/shakespeare-contemporaries/ben-jonson-poet-
playwright/

One thing that makes Volpone different is that it is partially allegorical. The characters are named after
animals (in Italian), and share the personality and traits with the animal for which they are named.
Volpone is sly, like a fox. Mosca is hyperactive and irritating like a mosquito. Voltore is tall and gaunt and
opportunistic like a vulture, etc.

In my opinion, Volpone is a very effective comedy. The dynamic between Volpone and Mosca is
delightful as they enjoy their shared wickedness. The relationship between Corvino and Celia, while
incredibly sexist, is presented in a very engaging way. Corvino goes from being mindlessly jealous in one
moment, to attempting to prostitute his wife to save the comatose Volpone in the next. Also, the
moment when Volpone realizes that Mosca has betrayed him is very entertaining.

I think the ending of the play, however, is very weak. All the characters are punished for their wicked
acts, but that wickedness is what makes the play so much fun. The ending seems quite tacked on, and
unnecessarily apologetic.