Epicoene, or, the Silent Woman
Jan 2022 · Otbebookpublishing
Ebook
143
Pages
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About this ebook
The play takes place in London, primarily in the home of Morose. Morose is a wealthy old man with an obsessive hatred of noise, going as far as to live on a street too narrow for carts to pass and make noise. He has made plans to disinherit his nephew Dauphine by marrying. This is due to the schemes and tricks Dauphine has played on him in the past. To combat this, Dauphine concocts a plan with Cutbeard, Morose's barber. Cutbeard presents Morose with a young (and supposedly) silent woman to marry. When Morose meets Epicœne, he tries to find out if she is really a silent woman, testing her obedience. He tells her not to succumb to the temptations of the court and tells her about the virtues of silence. Under the assumption that his fiancée, Epicœne, is an exceptionally quiet woman, Morose excitedly plans their marriage. Unbeknownst to him, Dauphine has arranged the whole match for purposes of his own.
About the author
Ben Jonson (1572-1637) was a towering figure in English Renaissance literature, renowned for his sharp wit, satirical prowess, and robust personality. Born in London, Jonson's early life was marked by hardship; his father died before he was born, and his stepfather was a bricklayer. Despite these humble beginnings, Jonson's intellect shone brightly. He attended Westminster School, where he was mentored by the classical scholar William Camden, an influence that would permeate his literary works.Jonson's career was a tapestry of triumphs and controversies. He was a contemporary and sometimes rival of William Shakespeare, yet the two shared a mutual respect. Jonson's plays, such as "Volpone" and "The Alchemist," are celebrated for their incisive social commentary and complex characters. His masques, written for the court of James I, combined poetry, music, and elaborate staging, setting a new standard for theatrical spectacle.A man of strong opinions and a fiery temper, Jonson was no stranger to conflict. He was imprisoned several times, once for killing a fellow actor in a duel and another for offending political authorities with his plays. His outspoken nature and satirical edge often put him at odds with the establishment, yet he remained a favorite of King James I, who granted him a royal pension.Jonson's influence extended beyond his lifetime, shaping the works of later playwrights and poets. He was a pioneer in championing the classical unities and advocated for a more structured approach to drama. His legacy endures not only in his own works but also in the vibrant literary culture he helped to foster. Jonson's life and career offer a fascinating glimpse into the tumultuous world of early modern England, marked by artistic innovation and political intrigue.
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