The Allegorical Dimensions of Ben Jonson's The Alchemist

The exploration of Ben Jonson's The Alchemist as an allegory presents a unique challenge due to its classification as farce rather than a traditional allegorical work. Despite this, employing the concept of allegoresis allows for a critical analysis that reveals allegorical elements within the play, transcending its comedic facade.

Understanding Allegoresis

Allegoresis, as a literary method, enables the interpretation of a non-allegorical work as having allegorical components. Unlike explicit allegories such as The Faerie Queene and The Pilgrim's Progress, The Alchemist doesn't conform to the typical allegorical structure.

Instead, it invites readers to delve deeper into its characters and themes to uncover universal representations.

For example, envision a folk fable featuring Tommy the Toad and Bobby the Billy Goat discussing their wild nature. If this narrative transforms, with Tommy becoming Toad the Teacher and Bobby evolving into Stubborn Student Bobby Billy, exploring the realm of rational reason, it transforms into an allegory representing the broader spectrum of humanity.

The Creative Process of The Alchemist

Ben Jonson, regarded by some critics as a master of English literature, distinguished himself in the creation of The Alchemist.

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Unlike works that draw from existing stories, Jonson crafted both the storyline and plot from his own imagination. The key distinction lies in his use of character types rather than strictly allegorical characters, placing The Alchemist within the realm of farce.

Character types, or "typical" characters, serve as archetypes that resonate universally. Despite not achieving the universality of allegorical characters, these types, such as swindlers or giddy individuals, offer relatable experiences.

This distinction is crucial, as character types lend themselves to humor, farce, and satire, unlike the serious and earnest nature of allegorical characters.

Character Types and Allegorical Representations

Despite the farcical nature of The Alchemist, an allegoresis reading opens the door to interpreting character types as universal allegorical representations conveying a concealed and earnestly serious message. Characters like The Puritan Ananias, The Law Clerk Dapper, The Rich Young Man Kastril, and The Master Lovwit may be viewed as allegorical figures.

In this allegorical interpretation, themes intertwine to impart a serious lesson, potentially addressing Morality and Order in a Disordered world. The underlying message may emphasize the necessity for vigilance against victimization through right-minded Religion. Moreover, the satire employed by Jonson serves to reinforce the delivery of the earnestly serious theme, elevating The Alchemist beyond its farcical exterior.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ben Jonson's The Alchemist, while firmly rooted in the genre of farce, transcends its comedic framework through the lens of allegoresis. The characters, initially perceived as mere types, reveal deeper allegorical dimensions when subjected to critical analysis. Through this exploration, The Alchemist emerges not only as a comedic masterpiece but also as a vehicle for conveying earnestly serious themes that resonate universally.