Ben Jonson

Date of Birth: June 11, 1572

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: August 6, 1637

Biography

Ben Jonson was an influential English playwright and poet, best known for his satirical plays and his lyric poetry. Born in the late 16th century, Jonson was a contemporary of William Shakespeare and played a significant role in the development of English literature. His works often critiqued the social and political norms of his time, earning him both acclaim and controversy. Jonson’s most famous plays include “Volpone,” “The Alchemist,” and “Bartholomew Fair,” which are characterized by their sharp wit, complex characters, and intricate plots. In addition to his plays, Jonson was also a master of the masque, a form of festive courtly entertainment that combined poetry, music, dance, and elaborate sets. His masques were often performed at the court of King James I and are notable for their lavish production and poetic brilliance. Despite facing imprisonment and other hardships, Jonson’s legacy as a literary giant endures to this day.

5 Interesting Facts about Ben Jonson

1. Ben Jonson was the first poet laureate of England, a position he was awarded by King James I in 1616.

2. Before becoming a renowned playwright and poet, Jonson worked as a bricklayer, a trade he inherited from his stepfather.

3. Jonson was a close friend and rival of William Shakespeare, and he famously declared Shakespeare to be the “Soul of the age” in his eulogy for him.

4. Jonson’s play “Every Man in His Humour” featured a young William Shakespeare in its cast, marking one of the few documented instances of the two literary giants working together.

5. He was known for his fiery temper and was even imprisoned several times for his controversial works and outspoken nature.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ben Jonson

1. “He was not of an age, but for all time!” (In reference to William Shakespeare)

2. “True happiness consists not in the multitude of friends, but in the worth and choice.”

3. “Language most shows a man; speak that I may see thee.”

4. “To speak and to speak well are two things. A fool may talk, but a wise man speaks.”

5. “Art hath an enemy called Ignorance.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Ben Jonson did not achieve substantial wealth during his lifetime; his highest net worth was modest, primarily derived from royal patronage and his work as a playwright and poet.

Children

Ben Jonson had several children, but most of them died young. His surviving son, also named Benjamin, followed in his father’s literary footsteps but did not achieve the same level of fame.