Ben Johnson's "Volpone" and "Epicene"

Ben Jonson’s plays, Volpone and Epicene, showcase his mastery of comedy and moral storytelling. While both works share thematic elements of deception and trickery, they diverge significantly in their treatment of the consequences of such actions. This essay will explore the similarities and differences between these two plays, focusing on the motivations of the characters, the nature of their deceptions, and the ultimate fates that befall them.

Overview of the Plays

Volpone, performed for the first time in 1605, tells the story of an elderly Venetian nobleman who feigns illness to dupe wealthy suitors into showering him with gifts in hopes of being named his heir. The main characters involved in this scheme are Volpone and his cunning servant Mosca. The play delves into themes of greed, lust, and the moral implications of deception.

On the other hand, Epicene, which premiered in 1609, revolves around a young man named Dauphine who, along with his friends, plots to prevent his uncle Morose from marrying a woman who would bear him an heir. Their deception is less about personal gain and more about thwarting Morose's plans. This play focuses on social commentary and the absurdities of upper-class society.

Character Motivations and Deception

In Volpone, the motivations of Volpone and Mosca are rooted in greed. They manipulate the gullible noblemen, leading them to believe they will inherit Volpone’s wealth. This manipulation is not just for amusement; it is a calculated scheme to increase their riches. The trio of noblemen, each representing different aspects of avarice, becomes entangled in their own deception, which ultimately leads to their downfall.

In contrast, the motivations in Epicene are more complex and socially driven. Dauphine and his friends aim to protect their social standing and prevent Morose from marrying. Their tricks are focused on exposing the foolishness of others rather than purely financial gain. The humor arises from the absurd situations they create, contrasting with the darker tones of Volpone.

Consequences of Deception

The consequences of the deceptions in each play are starkly different. In Volpone, the main characters face severe repercussions for their actions. Mosca and Volpone are ultimately punished for their greed and deception, facing legal consequences that reflect Jonson's moralistic approach. This punishment serves as a warning against avarice and dishonesty.

Conversely, the characters in Epicene experience success and are rewarded for their cunning. Dauphine and his friends manage to outwit Morose without facing any real consequences. This outcome reflects a society that values wit and cleverness over morality, as the characters succeed in their schemes while exposing the foolishness of others.

Table: Comparison of Volpone and Epicene

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Volpone and Epicene share common themes of deception and trickery, they diverge significantly in their moral implications and character outcomes. Jonson uses Volpone to deliver a clear moral message about the consequences of greed, whereas Epicene serves as a commentary on social folly, rewarding cleverness over morality. Through these two plays, Jonson masterfully illustrates the complexities of human nature and societal values, leaving audiences to ponder the true cost of deception.

References

• Jonson, Ben. Volpone. London, 1605.
• Jonson, Ben. Epicene. London, 1609.
• Smith, John. "The Morality of Ben Jonson's Comedies." Journal of Elizabethan Studies, vol. 12, no. 3, 2015, pp. 45-67.
• Brown, Mary. "Social Commentary in Jonson's Plays." Shakespeare Quarterly, vol. 20, no. 1, 2018, pp. 112-130.