3 Review(s)

It is one of Jonson’s early masterpieces and a key work in the development of English comedy. The play centers on the concept of "humours," an idea derived from ancient Greek medicine, which posited that a person’s personality is determined by the balance of bodily fluids. In Jonson’s play, each character exhibits a dominant “humour” that defines their behavior and interactions. The comedy unfolds as these characters, each trapped by their own exaggerated traits, become embroiled in misunderstandings, love intrigues, and social satire.The plot revolves around the character of Wellbred, who returns to London from the country and is determined to introduce his friend, the gullible and naive Bobadill, to the city’s pleasures. Meanwhile, Wellbred's brother, Edward, is in love with the beautiful but somewhat distant Mariana, and her father, the absurdly stubborn and miserly old man, is set on arranging her marriage to a wealthy suitor. Throughout the play, the characters' interactions are driven by their overly rigid and often ridiculous personal traits. The play is full of humorous situations arising from these personal shortcomings, such as mistaken identities, deceptions, and romantic entanglements.