Bartholomew Fair: A Comedy

Name: Bartholomew Fair: A Comedy
Author: Ben Jonson

By Ben Jonson

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British Literature Humour Plays/Films/Dramas

About This Book

A boisterous London fair provides the setting for a satirical comedy in which a diverse cast—merchants, showmen, gamblers, hawkers, and local officials—pursue personal schemes, romantic rivalries, and petty justice amid booths and entertainments. Interwoven scenes expose hypocrisy, gullibility, and civic pretensions through comic misunderstandings, disguises, and topical speeches, alternating broad popular bustle with sharper dialogues. The action culminates in public confrontations and a restorative resolution that underscores tensions between urban spectacle and social order.

About the Author

Ben Jonson

Ben Jonson (1572-1637) was an influential English playwright and poet, renowned for his sharp wit and keen observations of human nature. A contemporary of William Shakespeare, Jonson's works often explore themes of social satire and moral complexity. He is best known for his comedies, including "Volpone" and "The Alchemist," which showcase his mastery of language and character development. Jonson also contributed significantly to the genre of the comedy of humours, emphasizing the interplay of personality traits in his characters. His literary legacy includes not only plays but also poetry and critical essays, establishing him as a pivotal figure in the development of English drama.