Facts about Ben Jonson Of English Poet
Ben Jonson, born in 1572, was a renowned English playwright, poet, a Renaissance literary critic as well. His writings had a lasting impact on English literature for future generations in addition to making a substantial contribution to the thriving literary landscape of his day. This in-depth biography delves deeply into Ben Jonson’s life, career, and legacy.
Early Life and Education:
Benjamin Jonson was born on June 11, 1572, in Westminster, London, to William Jonson, a preacher, and Anne, his spouse. Though nothing is known about his early years, it is thought that he was educated at Westminster School, where he was taught by the prominent and progressive scholar William Camden.
Following his graduation, Jonson had a brief job as a bricklayer with his stepfather. This experience would later inform his satirical depiction of the construction industry in various works. But his real love was writing, so he quickly gave up the family trade to focus on his artistic career.
Exile:
Jonson’s first experience with exile occurred during his early years when he enlisted as a soldier and fought in the Low Countries. The reasons for this move are not entirely clear, but it is believed that financial difficulties played a role. This period of military service introduced Jonson to a different world and exposed him to diverse experiences, which may have influenced his later works that often depict various aspects of society.
Later in his career, Jonson faced a different kind of exile, albeit a temporary one. In 1616, he traveled to Scotland, possibly to escape legal troubles related to the controversy surrounding “Eastward Ho!” He spent some time in Edinburgh, and during this period, he wrote his comedy “The Devil is an Ass.” This voluntary exile allowed him to distance himself from the political tensions in England and focus on his creative endeavors.
Relationships:
Jonson’s relationships were as dynamic and multifaceted as his plays. His most notable association was with William Shakespeare. While there were undoubtedly moments of collaboration, there were also instances of friendly competition and, at times, professional rivalry. Jonson’s poem “To the Memory of My Beloved, the Author, Mr. William Shakespeare, and What He Hath Left Us” reflects both admiration for Shakespeare’s genius and a hint of rivalry.
Within his literary circle, Jonson had friendships and conflicts with contemporaries such as John Donne, another prominent figure of the time. The nature of these relationships was often marked by intellectual exchange, mutual respect, and, occasionally, heated disagreements. Jonson was known for his sharp wit and sometimes combative personality, which contributed to both alliances and conflicts.
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In his personal life, Jonson faced challenges, including the death of his son in 1603. This tragedy deeply affected him, finding expression in some of his later works. The themes of loss, grief, and the complexity of human emotions are evident in Jonson’s writings, adding a personal dimension to his creative output.
- Every Man in His Humour (1598):
- This play is considered a breakthrough for Jonson and is notable for its introduction of the humor characters, each representing a specific temperament or “humor” of the time.
- It marked Jonson’s collaboration with William Shakespeare and established Jonson as a playwright of note.
- Volpone (1605):
- One of Jonson’s most famous comedies, “Volpone” is a satirical look at human greed and the lengths people will go to accumulate wealth.
- The character Volpone pretends to be near death to trick his acquaintances into giving him gifts, leading to a series of comic and morally ambiguous situations.
- The Alchemist (1610):
- A comedic masterpiece, “The Alchemist” satirizes the gullibility of people who believe in alchemy and other fraudulent practices.
- The play explores themes of deception, greed, and the corrupting influence of wealth.
- Bartholomew Fair (1614):
- This comedy is set against the backdrop of a London fair and provides a lively and humorous depiction of various social classes and characters.
- Jonson uses the fair as a microcosm of society, allowing him to satirize a wide range of human behaviors and vices.
- The Devil is an Ass (1616):
- Written during Jonson’s voluntary exile in Scotland, this play is a satire on human folly and the misguided pursuit of desires.
- The protagonist, Fitzdottrel, becomes a pawn in a series of schemes orchestrated by the devil, highlighting Jonson’s wit and moral commentary.
- The Magnetic Lady (1632):
- One of Jonson’s later works, this play explores themes of love and attraction through a complex plot involving a widow, her suitors, and the influence of magnetism.
- Jonson uses the concept of magnetic attraction as a metaphor for the irresistible force of love.
TIMELINE
1572 – June 11: Ben Jonson is born in Westminster, London, to Anne and William Jonson, a clergyman.
Late 1580s to Early 1590s: Jonson likely attends Westminster School, where he studies under William Camden, a scholar.
1594: Jonson marries Anne Lewis.
1597: Jonson works briefly as a bricklayer but soon abandons the trade to pursue a career in the arts.
1597: “The Case is Altered,” one of Jonson’s earliest plays, is performed.
1598: “Every Man in His Humour” is performed, marking Jonson’s breakthrough and establishing his collaboration with William Shakespeare.
1599: Jonson’s son, also named Benjamin, is born.
1600: “Cynthia’s Revels” is performed, a satirical play critiquing courtly behavior.
1601: “Poetaster,” a satirical comedy, is performed, targeting rival playwrights.
1603: Jonson’s son dies.
1603: Jonson is imprisoned for his involvement in writing “Eastward Ho!” which is deemed seditious. Shakespeare intervenes, leading to Jonson’s release.
1605: “Volpone” is performed, showcasing Jonson’s skill in satirical comedy.
1606: “Sejanus His Fall,” a tragedy co-written with Shakespeare, is performed.
1609: Jonson’s first major collection of poems, “Epigrams,” is published.
1610: “The Alchemist” is performed, further establishing Jonson’s reputation as a master of satire.
1616: Jonson appointed as the poet laureate.
1616: “The Workes of Ben Jonson” is published, a collection of his plays and poems.
1616: Jonson travels to Scotland, possibly to avoid legal issues.
1616: “The Forest,” a collection of poems, is published.
1623: Jonson’s son becomes an actor.
1630: Jonson appointed as the official historiographer of England.
1632: “The Magnetic Lady,” one of Jonson’s later plays, is performed.
1637 – August 6: Ben Jonson dies in Westminster, London.
1640: “Underwood,” a posthumous collection of Jonson’s later poems, is published.
1641: A folio edition of Jonson’s collected works is published.
Late 17th Century: Various editions of Jonson’s works, including collected works and separate plays, are published, contributing to the preservation of his legacy.
18th Century to Present: Ben Jonson’s works continue to be studied, performed, and celebrated, solidifying his status as a key figure in English literature. His influence spans drama, poetry, and literary criticism, contributing to various literary movements and discussions.
