Ben Jonson

Definition

Ben Jonson was a prominent English playwright and poet of the late 16th and early 17th centuries, known for his influential contributions to the development of English theater. His works are characterized by their sharp wit, satirical humor, and exploration of themes such as social status and human behavior. As a contemporary of Shakespeare, Jonson played a key role in shaping the theatrical landscape of his time, often emphasizing classical ideals and structured forms in contrast to the more fluid style of his peers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ben Jonson's most famous plays include 'Volpone', 'The Alchemist', and 'Bartholomew Fair', which exemplify his skill in combining humor with social critique.
2. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Jonson was known for his belief in the importance of structure and form in playwriting, often adhering to classical unities.
3. Jonson also held the title of Poet Laureate of England, reflecting his stature and influence in the literary world during his lifetime.
4. His works often included complex characters who represented various social classes, allowing Jonson to comment on societal norms and behaviors.
5. Jonson's legacy includes the establishment of the first known theatrical company in London under a royal patent, which helped professionalize theater in England.

Review Questions

• How did Ben Jonson's approach to playwriting differ from that of his contemporaries like Shakespeare?
  • Ben Jonson's approach to playwriting was more structured and focused on classical ideals compared to Shakespeare's more fluid style. While Shakespeare often explored complex emotions and utilized an expansive range of characters, Jonson preferred to emphasize satire and social commentary within well-defined plots. His works were crafted with an attention to unity and form, reflecting his belief in the importance of adhering to traditional rules of drama.
• In what ways did Ben Jonson contribute to the evolution of satire in English theater?
  • Ben Jonson significantly advanced the use of satire in English theater by incorporating sharp wit and social critique into his plays. His characters often represented exaggerated versions of societal types, allowing him to mock social norms and behaviors effectively. By addressing contemporary issues such as greed, hypocrisy, and class differences through comedic narratives, Jonson set a precedent for future playwrights who sought to blend humor with critical commentary.
• Evaluate the impact of Ben Jonson's works on the historical development of theater and how they influenced later playwrights.
  • Ben Jonson's works had a lasting impact on the historical development of theater by establishing a model for blending satire with structured storytelling. His emphasis on character development and moral lessons influenced later playwrights like Molière and Dryden, who incorporated similar techniques into their own works. Moreover, Jonson's push for professionalism within the theater community laid the groundwork for organized theatrical companies, enhancing the art form's legitimacy and paving the way for future generations of playwrights.

Related terms

Commedia dell'arte: An early form of professional theater characterized by masked 'stock' characters, improvised performances, and a focus on physical comedy.

Satire: A literary genre that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, society, or politics.

Masque: A form of festive courtly entertainment that combined poetry, music, dance, and elaborate staging, often associated with Ben Jonson's works.