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Style
Definition of Tone
The tone of a piece of writing is its general character or attitude, which might be cheerful or depressive, sarcastic or sincere, comical or mournful, praising or critical, and so on. For instance... read full definition
The tone of a piece of writing is its general character or attitude, which might be cheerful or depressive, sarcastic or sincere, comical or mournful, praising or critical... read full definition
The tone of a piece of writing is its general character or attitude, which might be cheerful or depressive, sarcastic or sincere, comical... read full definition
The Argument
Explanation and Analysis:
Volpone is written in an incredibly sarcastic, withering tone that ruthlessly critiques the characters in the play for their miserable behavior—as could perhaps be expected from a play whose cast includes a "parasite" and a "vulture."
The derision with which Jonson treats his lowly cast of grifters is evident from the very opening of the play, when the playwright presents his “argument”:
Volpone, childless, rich, feigns sick, despairs,
Offers his state to hopes of several heirs,
Lies languishing; his Parasite receives
Presents of all, assures, deludes; then weaves
Other cross-plots, which ope themselves, are told.
New tricks for safety are sought; they thrive; when, bold,
Each tempts th’other again, and all are sold.
Related Themes:
