Imitation and Contamination of the Classics in the Comedies of Ben Jonson

Imitation and Contamination of the Classics in the Comedies of Ben Jonson

Author: Tom Harrison

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Published: 2022-10-12

Total Pages: 222

ISBN-13: 1000798747

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This book focuses on the influence of classical authors on Ben Jonson’s dramaturgy, with particular emphasis on the Greek and Roman playwrights and satirists. It illuminates the interdependence of the aspects of Jonson’s creative personality by considering how classical performance elements, including the Aristophanic ‘Great Idea,’ chorus, Terentian/Plautine performative strategies, and ‘performative’ elements from literary satire, manifest themselves in the structuring and staging of his plays. This fascinating exploration contributes to the ‘performative turn’ in early modern studies by reframing Jonson’s classicism as essential to his dramaturgy as well as his erudition. The book is also a case study for how the early modern education system’s emphasis on imitative-contaminative practices prepared its students, many of whom became professional playwrights, for writing for a theatre that had a similar emphasis on recycling and recombining performative tropes and structures.


Book Synopsis Imitation and Contamination of the Classics in the Comedies of Ben Jonson by : Tom Harrison

Download or read book Imitation and Contamination of the Classics in the Comedies of Ben Jonson written by Tom Harrison and published by Taylor & Francis. This book was released on 2022-10-12 with total page 222 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book focuses on the influence of classical authors on Ben Jonson’s dramaturgy, with particular emphasis on the Greek and Roman playwrights and satirists. It illuminates the interdependence of the aspects of Jonson’s creative personality by considering how classical performance elements, including the Aristophanic ‘Great Idea,’ chorus, Terentian/Plautine performative strategies, and ‘performative’ elements from literary satire, manifest themselves in the structuring and staging of his plays. This fascinating exploration contributes to the ‘performative turn’ in early modern studies by reframing Jonson’s classicism as essential to his dramaturgy as well as his erudition. The book is also a case study for how the early modern education system’s emphasis on imitative-contaminative practices prepared its students, many of whom became professional playwrights, for writing for a theatre that had a similar emphasis on recycling and recombining performative tropes and structures.


Shakespeare and (Eco-)Performance History

Shakespeare and (Eco-)Performance History

Author: Elizabeth Schafer

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Published: 2024-06-12

Total Pages: 243

ISBN-13: 1040037623

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Seismic shifts in the theatrical meanings of The Merry Wives of Windsor have taken place across the centuries as Shakespeare’s frequently performed play has relocated to Windsor across the world, journeying along the production/adaptation/appropriation continuum. This (eco-)performance history of Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor not only offers the first in-depth analysis of the play in production, with a particular focus on the representation of merry women, but also utilises the comedy’s forest-aware dramaturgy to explore Mistress Page’s concept of being ‘frugal in my mirth’ in relation to sustainable theatre practices. Herne’s Oak – the fictitious tree in Windsor Forest where everyone meets in the final scene of the play – is utilised to enable a maverick but ecologically based reframing of the productions of Merry Wives analysed here. This study engages with gender, physical comedy, and cultural relocations of Windsor across the world to offer new insight into Merry Wives and its theatricality.


Book Synopsis Shakespeare and (Eco-)Performance History by : Elizabeth Schafer

Download or read book Shakespeare and (Eco-)Performance History written by Elizabeth Schafer and published by Taylor & Francis. This book was released on 2024-06-12 with total page 243 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Seismic shifts in the theatrical meanings of The Merry Wives of Windsor have taken place across the centuries as Shakespeare’s frequently performed play has relocated to Windsor across the world, journeying along the production/adaptation/appropriation continuum. This (eco-)performance history of Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor not only offers the first in-depth analysis of the play in production, with a particular focus on the representation of merry women, but also utilises the comedy’s forest-aware dramaturgy to explore Mistress Page’s concept of being ‘frugal in my mirth’ in relation to sustainable theatre practices. Herne’s Oak – the fictitious tree in Windsor Forest where everyone meets in the final scene of the play – is utilised to enable a maverick but ecologically based reframing of the productions of Merry Wives analysed here. This study engages with gender, physical comedy, and cultural relocations of Windsor across the world to offer new insight into Merry Wives and its theatricality.


Venus’s Palace

Venus’s Palace

Author: Reut Barzilai

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Published: 2023-03-20

Total Pages: 162

ISBN-13: 100084952X

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This book lays bare the dialogue between Shakespeare and critics of the stage and positions it as part of an ongoing cultural, ethical, and psychological debate about the effects of performance on actors and on spectators. In so doing, the book makes a substantial contribution both to the study of representations of theatre in Shakespeare’s plays and to the understanding of ethical concerns about acting and spectating—then, and now. The book opens with a comprehensive and coherent analysis of the main early modern English anxieties about theater and its power. These are read against twentieth- and twenty-first-century theories of acting, interviews with actors, and research into the effects of media representation on spectator behaviour, all of which demonstrate the lingering relevance of antitheatrical claims and the personal and philosophical implications of acting and spectating. The main part of the book reveals Shakespeare’s responses to major antitheatrical claims about the powerful effects of poetry, music, playacting, and playgoing. It also demonstrates the evolution of Shakespeare’s view of these claims over the course of his career: from light-hearted parody in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, through systematic contemplation in Hamlet, to acceptance and dramatization in The Tempest. This study will be of great interest to scholars and students of theater, English literature, history, and culture.


Book Synopsis Venus’s Palace by : Reut Barzilai

Download or read book Venus’s Palace written by Reut Barzilai and published by Taylor & Francis. This book was released on 2023-03-20 with total page 162 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book lays bare the dialogue between Shakespeare and critics of the stage and positions it as part of an ongoing cultural, ethical, and psychological debate about the effects of performance on actors and on spectators. In so doing, the book makes a substantial contribution both to the study of representations of theatre in Shakespeare’s plays and to the understanding of ethical concerns about acting and spectating—then, and now. The book opens with a comprehensive and coherent analysis of the main early modern English anxieties about theater and its power. These are read against twentieth- and twenty-first-century theories of acting, interviews with actors, and research into the effects of media representation on spectator behaviour, all of which demonstrate the lingering relevance of antitheatrical claims and the personal and philosophical implications of acting and spectating. The main part of the book reveals Shakespeare’s responses to major antitheatrical claims about the powerful effects of poetry, music, playacting, and playgoing. It also demonstrates the evolution of Shakespeare’s view of these claims over the course of his career: from light-hearted parody in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, through systematic contemplation in Hamlet, to acceptance and dramatization in The Tempest. This study will be of great interest to scholars and students of theater, English literature, history, and culture.


Playgrounds

Playgrounds

Author: David J. Amelang

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Published: 2022-12-30

Total Pages: 172

ISBN-13: 1000822826

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This book compares the theatrical cultures of early modern England and Spain and explores the causes and consequences not just of the remarkable similarities but also of the visible differences between them. An exercise in multi-focal theatre history research, it deploys a wide range of perspectives and evidence with which to recreate the theatrical landscapes of these two countries and thus better understand how the specific conditions of performance actively contributed to the development of each country’s dramatic literature. This monograph develops an innovative comparative framework within which to explore the numerous similarities, as well as the notable differences, between early modern Europe’s two most prominent commercial theatre cultures. By highlighting the nuances and intricacies that make each theatrical culture unique while never losing sight of the fact that the two belong to the same broader cultural ecosystem, its dual focus should appeal to scholars and students of English and Spanish literature alike, as well as those interested in the broader history of European theatre. Learning from what one ‘playground’ – that is, the environment and circumstances out of which a dramatic tradition originates – reveals about the other will help solve not only the questions posed above but also others that still await examination. This investigation will be of great interest to students and scholars in theatre history, comparative drama, early modern drama, and performance culture.


Book Synopsis Playgrounds by : David J. Amelang

Download or read book Playgrounds written by David J. Amelang and published by Taylor & Francis. This book was released on 2022-12-30 with total page 172 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book compares the theatrical cultures of early modern England and Spain and explores the causes and consequences not just of the remarkable similarities but also of the visible differences between them. An exercise in multi-focal theatre history research, it deploys a wide range of perspectives and evidence with which to recreate the theatrical landscapes of these two countries and thus better understand how the specific conditions of performance actively contributed to the development of each country’s dramatic literature. This monograph develops an innovative comparative framework within which to explore the numerous similarities, as well as the notable differences, between early modern Europe’s two most prominent commercial theatre cultures. By highlighting the nuances and intricacies that make each theatrical culture unique while never losing sight of the fact that the two belong to the same broader cultural ecosystem, its dual focus should appeal to scholars and students of English and Spanish literature alike, as well as those interested in the broader history of European theatre. Learning from what one ‘playground’ – that is, the environment and circumstances out of which a dramatic tradition originates – reveals about the other will help solve not only the questions posed above but also others that still await examination. This investigation will be of great interest to students and scholars in theatre history, comparative drama, early modern drama, and performance culture.


The Aristophanic comedies of Ben Jonson

The Aristophanic comedies of Ben Jonson

Author: Coburn Gum

Publisher: Walter de Gruyter GmbH & Co KG

Published: 2015-07-24

Total Pages: 208

ISBN-13: 3111391477

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Book Synopsis The Aristophanic comedies of Ben Jonson by : Coburn Gum

Download or read book The Aristophanic comedies of Ben Jonson written by Coburn Gum and published by Walter de Gruyter GmbH & Co KG. This book was released on 2015-07-24 with total page 208 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:


Influence of Ben Jonson on English Comedy, 1598-1642

Influence of Ben Jonson on English Comedy, 1598-1642

Author: Mina Kerr

Publisher:

Published: 1912

Total Pages: 148

ISBN-13:

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Book Synopsis Influence of Ben Jonson on English Comedy, 1598-1642 by : Mina Kerr

Download or read book Influence of Ben Jonson on English Comedy, 1598-1642 written by Mina Kerr and published by . This book was released on 1912 with total page 148 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:


The Best Works of Ben Jonson's Comedies: [Every Man in His Humor by Ben Jonson/ Volpone; Or, The Fox by Ben Jonson/ The Alchemist by Ben Jonson]

The Best Works of Ben Jonson's Comedies: [Every Man in His Humor by Ben Jonson/ Volpone; Or, The Fox by Ben Jonson/ The Alchemist by Ben Jonson]

Author: Ben Jonson

Publisher: Prabhat Prakashan

Published: 2024-06-22

Total Pages: 734

ISBN-13:

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Book 1: Step into the world of comedic satire with “Every Man in His Humor by Ben Jonson.” Ben Jonson's play takes a humorous look at human folly and the quirks of individual personalities, offering a delightful exploration of the comedic potential inherent in the diversity of human behavior. Book 2: Indulge in the clever machinations and deceitful plots of “Volpone; Or, The Fox by Ben Jonson.” Jonson's comedy unfolds with wit and cunning as the sly Volpone feigns illness to trick his greedy acquaintances, providing a humorous commentary on human greed and moral ambiguity. Book 3: Enter the world of alchemical antics and clever schemes in “The Alchemist by Ben Jonson.” Jonson's comedic masterpiece follows the exploits of a trio of con artists who exploit the gullibility of their victims. The play is a satirical exploration of greed, deception, and the pursuit of wealth through dubious means.


Book Synopsis The Best Works of Ben Jonson's Comedies: [Every Man in His Humor by Ben Jonson/ Volpone; Or, The Fox by Ben Jonson/ The Alchemist by Ben Jonson] by : Ben Jonson

Download or read book The Best Works of Ben Jonson's Comedies: [Every Man in His Humor by Ben Jonson/ Volpone; Or, The Fox by Ben Jonson/ The Alchemist by Ben Jonson] written by Ben Jonson and published by Prabhat Prakashan. This book was released on 2024-06-22 with total page 734 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Book 1: Step into the world of comedic satire with “Every Man in His Humor by Ben Jonson.” Ben Jonson's play takes a humorous look at human folly and the quirks of individual personalities, offering a delightful exploration of the comedic potential inherent in the diversity of human behavior. Book 2: Indulge in the clever machinations and deceitful plots of “Volpone; Or, The Fox by Ben Jonson.” Jonson's comedy unfolds with wit and cunning as the sly Volpone feigns illness to trick his greedy acquaintances, providing a humorous commentary on human greed and moral ambiguity. Book 3: Enter the world of alchemical antics and clever schemes in “The Alchemist by Ben Jonson.” Jonson's comedic masterpiece follows the exploits of a trio of con artists who exploit the gullibility of their victims. The play is a satirical exploration of greed, deception, and the pursuit of wealth through dubious means.


Every Man in His Humour

Every Man in His Humour

Author: Ben Jonson

Publisher: BoD - Books on Demand

Published: 2024-04-02

Total Pages: 114

ISBN-13:

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"Every Man in His Humour" by Ben Jonson is a classic Elizabethan comedy that offers a humorous yet incisive portrayal of London society in the early 17th century. Set in the bustling city of London, the play follows the lives of various characters from different social backgrounds as they navigate the complexities of urban life. At the center of the narrative is the character of Edward Knowell, a young gentleman who arrives in London seeking adventure and excitement. Through his encounters with a colorful cast of characters, including the brash and boastful Captain Bobadill, the crafty and conniving Kno'well, and the eccentric and philosophical Justice Clement, Jonson explores themes of social hierarchy, ambition, and self-discovery. Through witty dialogue, clever wordplay, and exaggerated characterizations, Jonson offers a satirical commentary on the quirks and foibles of his contemporaries. The play is filled with comedic misunderstandings, farcical situations, and humorous exchanges, all of which serve to entertain audiences while also shedding light on the absurdities of human behavior.


Book Synopsis Every Man in His Humour by : Ben Jonson

Download or read book Every Man in His Humour written by Ben Jonson and published by BoD - Books on Demand. This book was released on 2024-04-02 with total page 114 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: "Every Man in His Humour" by Ben Jonson is a classic Elizabethan comedy that offers a humorous yet incisive portrayal of London society in the early 17th century. Set in the bustling city of London, the play follows the lives of various characters from different social backgrounds as they navigate the complexities of urban life. At the center of the narrative is the character of Edward Knowell, a young gentleman who arrives in London seeking adventure and excitement. Through his encounters with a colorful cast of characters, including the brash and boastful Captain Bobadill, the crafty and conniving Kno'well, and the eccentric and philosophical Justice Clement, Jonson explores themes of social hierarchy, ambition, and self-discovery. Through witty dialogue, clever wordplay, and exaggerated characterizations, Jonson offers a satirical commentary on the quirks and foibles of his contemporaries. The play is filled with comedic misunderstandings, farcical situations, and humorous exchanges, all of which serve to entertain audiences while also shedding light on the absurdities of human behavior.


Representative English Comedies: The later contemporaries of Shakespeare: Ben Jonson and others. 1913

Representative English Comedies: The later contemporaries of Shakespeare: Ben Jonson and others. 1913

Author: Charles Mills Gayley

Publisher:

Published: 1913

Total Pages: 662

ISBN-13:

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Book Synopsis Representative English Comedies: The later contemporaries of Shakespeare: Ben Jonson and others. 1913 by : Charles Mills Gayley

Download or read book Representative English Comedies: The later contemporaries of Shakespeare: Ben Jonson and others. 1913 written by Charles Mills Gayley and published by . This book was released on 1913 with total page 662 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:


The Alchemist

The Alchemist

Author: Tanya Pollard

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing

Published: 2023-09-21

Total Pages: 417

ISBN-13: 1472526252

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A fast-paced whirlwind of fantasy and mockery confined to a single room, The Alchemist offers a witty culmination of Jonson's experiments with city comedy. The play has been widely recognized as one of the most impressive achievements of the period's theatre; Coleridge famously described it as one of the three most perfect plots in literature. Yet it is a notoriously difficult play: its alchemical language has aged into obscurity, and its insiderly humour can seem impenetrable to students approaching it for the first time. This comprehensively annotated edition translates and illuminates the play's many pleasures and shows how Jonson's cynical, street-wise wit resonates with our contemporary sensibilities. Pollard highlights the play's witty ingenuity, while offering the information and guidance to enable students to understand and enjoy The Alchemist fully.


Book Synopsis The Alchemist by : Tanya Pollard

Download or read book The Alchemist written by Tanya Pollard and published by Bloomsbury Publishing. This book was released on 2023-09-21 with total page 417 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A fast-paced whirlwind of fantasy and mockery confined to a single room, The Alchemist offers a witty culmination of Jonson's experiments with city comedy. The play has been widely recognized as one of the most impressive achievements of the period's theatre; Coleridge famously described it as one of the three most perfect plots in literature. Yet it is a notoriously difficult play: its alchemical language has aged into obscurity, and its insiderly humour can seem impenetrable to students approaching it for the first time. This comprehensively annotated edition translates and illuminates the play's many pleasures and shows how Jonson's cynical, street-wise wit resonates with our contemporary sensibilities. Pollard highlights the play's witty ingenuity, while offering the information and guidance to enable students to understand and enjoy The Alchemist fully.