Sejanus: His Fall

Name: Sejanus: His Fall
Author: Ben Jonson

By Ben Jonson

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About This Book

A dense political tragedy set in the ancient imperial court that follows an influential minister's ascent and catastrophic fall as rivalries, conspiracies, and state machinations unravel. Scenes emphasize rhetorical debates, public accusations, secret plotting, and juridical spectacle, tracing how ambition, flattery, and suspicion corrode institutions and personal loyalties. The play interrogates the uses and abuses of power, the vulnerability of advisers and rulers to manipulation, and the moral and political cost of survival in a climate of fear, employing classical forms and sustained satirical and forensic argument.

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.