Volpone by Ben Jonson

Volpone has long been a popular choice as a set text for students. Written by Ben Jonson, it was first produced in 1606. Billed as a comedy, it also includes elements of tragedy and even animal fable (Volpone is Italian for ‘fox’). In essence, it’s a dark satire on greed and lust, and remains Jonson’s most performed work.

The action takes place in seventeenth-century Venice, over the course of one day. The chief characters are Volpone, a rich libertine and conman, and Mosca, his self-seeking servant. They cause chaos with an audacious fraud designed to part the city’s wealthiest from their fortunes. The tale twists and turns, as all the characters attempt to deceive each other, until the whole scheme finally collapses, with disastrous consequences for Volpone.

A great choice for students and theatre lovers

There are themes galore to explore in Volpone, a key reason for its popularity in schools and colleges. One of the most important is the power of stagecraft - Volpone doesn’t merely lie, but turns his deception into a whole production, complete with make-up, wardrobe and props. This is therefore truly a play to be seen, not just read.

In addition, it’s an excellent play to study alongside Shakespeare. Jonson and Shakespeare were contemporaries, although their approach to drama was quite different.

Of course, whether you’re a teacher, student or simply a theatre lover, Volpone, is, quite simply, great fun - its messages clearly resonating today.

Not surprisingly, Volpone is Jonson’s most performed work. As the inscription over his Westminster Abbey grave states: ‘O Rare Ben Johnson’ (sic) – and this play is indeed a rare treat to study and watch.

Volpone by Ben Jonson – find out more now

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Volpone performance dates announced

Volpone will be performed between Thursday 18th March and Saturday 10th April at Greenwich Theatre. For tickets, please call the box office on 020 8858 7755 or visit www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk