The Alchemist
Description:
This LibriVox recording of "The Alchemist" by Ben Jonson features a full cast of performers.
When a plague epidemic forces Lovewit, a gentleman residing in London, to retreat to the countryside, he leaves his home in the capable hands of his butler, Jeremy. Seizing the chance, Jeremy turns the house into a base for his deceptive schemes. He adopts the persona of 'Captain Face' and collaborates with Subtle, another swindler, and Dol Common, a sex worker. In "The Alchemist," Jonson boldly critiques the absurdities, narcissism, and moral failings of humanity, especially the gullibility that comes from greed. Individuals from various social strata fall prey to Jonson's sharp satirical humor as he highlights human frailties and the susceptibility to catchy promotions and "miraculous remedies." This is exemplified in the character of Sir Epicure Mammon, who is consumed by fantasies of eternal youth and boundless promiscuity. The narrative explores the lengths to which individuals will go to gain an upper hand over others in a bustling metropolis like London. The trio of tricksters—Subtle, Face, and Dol—are ultimately tripped up by the same flaws they exploit in those they deceive.
Cast:
Subtle, First Neighbor: Elizabeth Klett
Face: ToddHW
Dol Common: Arielle Lipshaw
Dapper, Second Officer: Nathanial W.C. Higgins
Drugger, Third Neighbor: Thomas Leigh Moore
Lovewit: Kevin Johnson
Sir Epicure Mammon: Algy Pug
Pertinax Surly, Fifth Neighbor, First Officer: Alan Mapstone
Tribulation Wholesome: TriciaG
Ananias: Martin Geeson
Kastril: David Nicol
Dame Pliant: Amy Gramour
Fourth Neighbor: Charlotte Duckett
Narrator: Kristingj
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Plot summary (can contain spoilers!):
There seems to be a misunderstanding regarding the authorship of "The Alchemist." While Ben Jonson indeed wrote a play titled "The Alchemist," it is crucial to clarify that the book most commonly referred to by that title is a novel by Paulo Coelho. This summary will focus on the play by Jonson, as requested.
Set in London during the plague, "The Alchemist" revolves around a clever conman named Subtle, who, along with his accomplices, is attempting to exploit the town’s desperation through alchemy. Subtle's schemes involve duping wealthy individuals into believing he can turn base metals into gold and provide them with elixirs and potions that promise prosperity and love. His motives are purely financial, and he showcases a masterful ability to manipulate his patrons.
As the plot unfolds, various characters enter the scene, including the gullible Sir Epicure Mammon, who is eager to invest in Subtle's dubious operations. Alongside him is the naïve Dapper, who seeks to win the favor of the angelic Lady. Each character’s desire for wealth and social advancement leads them to fall victim to Subtle’s elaborate tricks, showcasing the greedy nature of humanity in the face of temptation.
However, the comedic twist comes when things begin to unravel. The arrival of the authorities and the unexpected return of the previously thought-dead character Face complicate matters. As the con slowly disintegrates, themes of deception, morality, and the folly of greed come to the forefront. Ultimately, "The Alchemist" serves not only as a satire of the age but also as a commentary on the human condition and the lengths to which people will go for wealth and status.