Volpone, or, The Fox
Description:
In Ben Jonson's brilliant and provocative satirical comedy, Volpone, or, The Fox, the rich and cunning Venetian merchant, Volpone, feigns being on his deathbed to manipulate and deceive those around him. With his trusty servant Mosca at his side, he engages in a web of deceit, luring greedy neighbors and would-be heirs into a trap that reveals the depths of human ambition and avarice. As the story unfolds, the characters’ desperate schemes intertwine in a captivating dance of wit and revenge, ultimately exposing the folly of their desires.
Set against the backdrop of Renaissance Italy, Jonson’s sharp dialogue and richly drawn characters invite listeners to reflect on the nature of greed and the moral complexities of human behavior. Volpone remains a timeless exploration of ambition, duplicity, and the consequences that ensue when one becomes consumed by their desires, making it a compelling experience for both new and seasoned theatre enthusiasts alike.
Plot summary (can contain spoilers!):
Volpone, or, The Fox is a satirical comedy written by Ben Jonson, centered around the themes of greed, deception, and human folly. The play takes place in Venice and follows the cunning and wealthy con artist Volpone, who pretends to be on his deathbed to dupe a number of wealthy individuals into showering him with gifts and money as they hope to inherit his fortune upon his demise. Volpone's servile companion, Mosca, plays an integral role in the deceptions, acting as an intermediary between Volpone and the would-be heirs, which include the avaricious characters of Voltore, Corbaccio, and Corvino.
As the plot unfolds, each suitor attempts to outdo the others in their displays of affection and gifts for the ailing Volpone, convinced that they will be the sole inheritor of his vast wealth. Their absurd behavior is a source of comedic tension, as their greed blinds them to Volpone's true intentions. Mosca skillfully manipulates the situation, employing multiple layers of deception to keep the suitors vying for Volpone’s favor, while simultaneously entertaining his own ambition to claim a portion of Volpone’s fortune for himself.
The play is rife with complex characters, particularly Volpone, who delights in the manipulation of those around him, showcasing both his wit and moral decay. However, as the story progresses, the schemes begin to unravel when the inherent greed of the characters leads to their downfall. The pressures of deceit culminate in a series of revelations that challenge the fates of all involved, highlighting Jonson’s commentary on the nature of greed and the moral implications of their actions.
In the end, Volpone and Mosca face the consequences of their manipulations, as the justice system intervenes. The play concludes with moral lessons about the dangers of greed and hypocrisy, leaving the audience to ponder the true value of wealth and the cost of deceit. Jonson’s rich characterization and sharp wit create a compelling narrative that remains relevant, serving as both a critique of society’s values and a cautionary tale about the dark nature of human ambition.