Epicoene; Or, The Silent Woman

Name: Epicoene; Or, The Silent Woman
Author: Ben Jonson

By Ben Jonson

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British Literature Humour Plays/Films/Dramas

About This Book

A comedy follows a wealthy, noise-averse man who resolves to marry an exceptionally quiet young woman, whose apparent perfection becomes the fulcrum of a calculated scheme. The narrative advances through witty exchanges, matchmaking maneuvers, and a staged revelation of disguised identity that overturns expectations and reallocates fortune. Satirical episodes target marital ambition, masculine vanity, and social pretensions, while legal and domestic chicanery propel the action. The play balances sharp verbal repartee with farcical situations, using irony and disguise to probe gender performance and the gap between outward decorum and underlying motive.

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.