The Devil is an Ass — Ben Jonson

The Devil is an Ass by Ben Jonson: A Professional AnalysisIntroductionBen Jonson's The Devil is an Ass, first performed in 1616, stands as a testament to the playwright's sharp wit and incisive social commentary. This Jacobean comedy delves into the follies of London society, exposing the absurdities of human behavior through satire and allegory. The play's enduring relevance lies in its exploration of themes such as greed, vanity, and deception, which continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.Historical ContextThe early 17th century was a period of significant social and economic change in England. The rise of capitalism, urbanization, and a burgeoning middle class created a fertile ground for con artists and opportunists. Jonson, ever the keen observer, captures this milieu in The Devil is an Ass, using it as a backdrop to critique the moral decay he perceived in society.Plot OverviewThe play opens in Hell, where Satan discusses the idea of sending a lesser devil, Pug, to Earth to corrupt mankind. Pug is eager to undertake this mission, but Satan warns him that humanity has become so adept at sinning that even devils struggle to keep up. Nevertheless, Pug is dispatched to London, where he inhabits the body of a recently hanged thief.Pug becomes entangled with Fabian Fitzdottrel, a gullible gentleman obsessed with the occult and social advancement. Fitzdottrel's desire to summon a devil and his ambition to become the Duke of Drowned Lands make him an easy target for various swindlers, including the cunning projectors Merecraft and Wittipol. As the plot unfolds, Pug's attempts to corrupt humans are consistently outdone by their own inherent vices, leading to a series of comedic misadventures.Character AnalysisPug: As the titular ass, Pug represents the ineptitude of demonic forces in the face of human depravity. His failure to corrupt humans underscores Jonson's satirical assertion that people are fully capable of damning themselves without supernatural assistance. Fabian Fitzdottrel: A caricature of vanity and gullibility, Fitzdottrel embodies the absurd lengths to which individuals will go to achieve social status. His susceptibility to flattery and schemes highlights the dangers of unchecked ambition.Merecraft and Wittipol: These characters serve as personifications of deception and manipulation. Their exploitation of Fitzdottrel's weaknesses illustrates the prevalence of opportunism in society.Frances Fitzdottrel: In contrast to her husband, Frances is portrayed as virtuous and intelligent. Her resistance to temptation and her efforts to protect her husband's estate demonstrate Jonson's appreciation for moral integrity.ThemesHuman Depravity: The central theme of the play is the idea that humans are inherently more corrupt than devils. Jonson suggests that the vices of greed, vanity, and deceit are so ingrained in society that supernatural intervention is redundant.Social Ambition: Fitzdottrel's obsession with titles and status satirizes the social climbing prevalent in Jacobean England. Jonson critiques the superficiality of such pursuits and the moral compromises they entail.Deception and Gullibility: The ease with which characters like Merecraft deceive others highlights the susceptibility of individuals to manipulation, especially when blinded by ambition or desire.Gender Roles: Through Frances Fitzdottrel, Jonson challenges traditional gender roles by presenting a female character who exhibits wisdom and agency, contrasting with the foolishness of her male counterparts.Literary Devices and StyleJonson employs a range of literary devices to enhance the play's satirical impact:Irony: The title itself is ironic, suggesting that the devil is foolish compared to humans. This irony permeates the play, emphasizing the absurdity of human behavior. While The Devil is an Ass may not be as frequently performed as some of Jonson's other works, it has been recognized for its incisive critique of society and its innovative use of satire. The play's themes remain pertinent, offering insights into human behavior that transcend its historical context.ConclusionBen Jonson's The Devil is an Ass is a masterful exploration of human folly, employing satire and allegory to critique the vices of society. Through its vivid characters and sharp wit, the play challenges audiences to reflect on their own behaviors and the moral fabric of their communities. Its enduring relevance attests to Jonson's profound understanding of the human condition.