Volpone; Or, The Fox

English writer Ben Jonson created the satirical comedy drama Volpone; Or, The Fox. One of Jonson's most important pieces, it was originally performed in 1605. The drama examines issues of greed, trickery, and the corrupting effects of money and power. Volpone is a rich Venetian magnifico who pretends to have a fatal sickness in order to entice different unscrupulous people who want to acquire his money. Volpone is the protagonist of the narrative. Volpone's deft ploy starts a chain of events including complex schemes, impersonations, and manipulation. His major helper in carrying out his tricks is a smart servant by the name of Mosca. Jonson mocks the vices and follies of Venetian society throughout the play, especially its preoccupation with money and material wealth. The people that surround Volpone, such as the attorneys, businessmen, and legacy seekers, are represented as being morally bankrupt and corrupt. They flatter one other and engage in complicated plots because they want Volpone's fortune.