Books April 2012
Ben Jonson’s violent laughter
A review of Ben Jonson: A Life by Ian Donaldson.
The most important fact about Ben Jonson (1572–1637) is that he was not Shakespeare. It may be objected that this comment is futile, since nobody can be blamed for not being Shakespeare. But a major reason for making the point is that Jonson was constantly making it himself. Not to be Shakespeare was an essential element in his self-definition, in life as in literature.
He was a Londoner whose métier, even in his two Roman tragedies, was satirical comedy, producing the “violent laughter”...
A Message from the Editors
Support our crucial work and join us in strengthening the bonds of civilization.
Your donation sustains our efforts to inspire joyous rediscoveries.