In Jonson's 'Volpone,' what is the primary motivation for the title character's elaborate ruse?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: To trick greedy legacy-hunters into bringing him expensive gifts
Volpone (the 'Fox') pretends to be on his deathbed to entice 'vultures' to bring him gifts in hopes of being named his heir. The play is a scathing critique of avarice and social parasitism.
Keep practicing
More Renaissance Drama questions
- Which theatrical convention involves a character speaking their inner thoughts directly to the audience while alone on stage?
- Thomas Kyd's 'The Spanish Tragedy' is credited with establishing which highly popular sub-genre of Renaissance drama?
- What was the name of the first purpose-built permanent playhouse in London, erected by James Burbage in 1576?
- Which playwright and contemporary of Shakespeare was known for his 'Comedy of Humours' and the satirical play 'The Alchemist'?
- In the context of the Renaissance stage, what did the 'Heavens' refer to?
- Which play by Christopher Marlowe features a protagonist who sells his soul to the devil in exchange for twenty-four years of knowledge and…