Ben Jonson
Ben Jonson, a literary giant of the 17th century, crafted satirical plays that unmasked human flaws. His poetic prowess and sharp wit made him a celebrated playwright and Poet Laureate.
Benjamin Jonson
Poet
June 11, 1572
Gemini
August 06, 1637
65
Westminster, London, England
Ben Jonson (1572รขยย1637) was an English playwright, poet, actor, and literary critic of the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras. He is best known for his satirical comedies, such as “Volpone” and “The Alchemist,” as well as his masques and poems.
Jonson’s plays were highly regarded by his contemporaries, and he was considered one of the leading poets and dramatists of his time. He was awarded an honorary Master of Arts degree from Oxford University in 1619.
One interesting fact about Ben Jonson is that he was originally apprenticed to his stepfather’s bricklaying trade before enlisting in the English army, where he claimed to have killed a Spanish champion in single combat.