Jonson’s Critical History
This chapter provides an overview of Jonson scholarship since 1900. The Biography section focuses on his social class, relationship with his family and peers, and his education. Edited and general literary criticism covers many seminal articles that appeared in print in edited collections. These books cover genre studies, the impact of the failed comedy The New Inn on his reputation, and analysis of the great comedies such as Volpone and The Alchemist, the epigrams, and other works. The poetry section covers classical influences, patronage, and the poet as a self-conscious craftsman. The section on masques discusses the influence of Inigo Jones, the use of spectacle, and Jonson’s desire for patronage and his political motivations. The final section covers the great comedies and the lesser-known dramas, focusing on satire, Jonson’s concern for his reputation, and the rise and fall of his career.