:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} – Every Man in His Humour
Every Man in His Humour (1598) is a famous comedy written by Ben Jonson. The play is an example of the “Comedy of Humours”, a dramatic form based on the idea that each character is dominated by a particular personality trait or humour.
Jonson satirizes the foolish behaviour and weaknesses of society by presenting characters controlled by their exaggerated temperaments.
About the Author
Ben Jonson (1572–1637) was one of the most important dramatists of the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods. He was a contemporary of William Shakespeare and is known for his sharp satire and classical approach to drama.
His major works include:
- Every Man in His Humour
- Volpone
- The Alchemist
The Theory of Humours
The play is based on the ancient medical theory of four bodily humours:
- Blood
- Phlegm
- Yellow bile
- Black bile
According to this theory, imbalance in these humours determines a person’s temperament.
Jonson uses this idea to create characters who behave foolishly because of their dominant humour.
Each character represents a specific exaggerated personality trait.
Setting of the Play
The play is set in London and reflects the everyday life of Elizabethan society.
Through satire and humour, Jonson exposes the pretensions and weaknesses of people.
Act-Wise Summary
Act I
The play begins with the introduction of several characters and their relationships.
Edward Knowell is in love with Bridget Kitely. His father, Old Knowell, suspects that Edward is behaving irresponsibly and secretly follows him to observe his actions.
Meanwhile, various comic characters appear, each displaying their peculiar “humour.”
The act introduces the central conflict and the comic tone of the play.
Act II
Edward travels to London, and Old Knowell continues to follow him in disguise.
Other characters, including the jealous husband Kitely and the boastful soldier Captain Bobadil, become involved in the story.
Captain Bobadil is portrayed as a comic braggart who exaggerates his bravery.
Jonson satirizes human vanity and pretension.
Act III
Kitely becomes increasingly suspicious of his wife’s behaviour due to his jealous nature.
Misunderstandings and comic situations develop as characters misinterpret each other's actions.
The exaggerated personalities of the characters create humour and confusion.
Jealousy and suspicion drive much of the comic action.
Act IV
The confusion among characters intensifies. Captain Bobadil’s cowardice becomes evident when he is challenged to fight.
His exaggerated claims of bravery are exposed as false.
Jonson uses this situation to ridicule false pride and arrogance.
Pretentious characters are exposed through comic situations.
Act V
In the final act, misunderstandings are resolved and the truth about the characters is revealed.
Old Knowell realizes that his suspicions about Edward were unnecessary.
Order is restored, and the characters learn lessons about their behaviour.
The play ends with harmony and reconciliation.
Major Characters
- Edward Knowell – young lover
- Old Knowell – suspicious father
- Kitely – jealous husband
- Captain Bobadil – boastful soldier
- Bridget – love interest
Major Themes
- Human folly and vanity
- Jealousy and suspicion
- Satire of social behaviour
- Comedy of humours
Style and Dramatic Technique
- satirical comedy
- exaggerated character traits
- classical dramatic structure
- witty dialogue
Jonson’s comedy is more realistic and satirical compared to Shakespeare’s romantic comedies.
Critical Appreciation
- One of Jonson’s most successful comedies.
- Introduces the famous “comedy of humours.”
- Provides sharp satire on human weaknesses.
- Shows Jonson’s mastery of dramatic structure.
Significance of the Play
- important example of Elizabethan comedy
- popularized the comedy of humours
- influenced later English drama
- demonstrates Jonson’s satirical genius
Quick Revision Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Author | Ben Jonson |
| Play | Every Man in His Humour |
| Year | 1598 |
| Genre | Comedy of Humours |
| Setting | London |
| Main Idea | Satire of human weaknesses |
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