Imagine the devil, Satan himself, thinking that the world is so thoroughly corrupt that one of his minions could easily deceive humanity. “The Devil is an Ass” begins with this grandly ironic premise. Our protagonist, Pug, a minor demon, believes he can make a name for himself by causing mischief on Earth. Pug’s confidence is as misplaced as his infernal ambitions, setting the stage for a delightful comedy of errors.
A Devilishly Flawed Plan
Satan, ever the skeptic, doubts Pug’s capabilities. Nevertheless, he allows Pug to venture into London, but not without a sardonic caveat: if Pug fails, he will face severe punishment. Pug’s misadventures begin the moment he arrives. Disguised as a human, he seeks out someone to corrupt, assuming it will be an easy task in a city teeming with vice. Pug’s naïveté is glaring, and it quickly becomes clear that he is out of his depth.
Human Follies Exposed
Jonson uses Pug’s bungling efforts to reveal the absurdities and corruptions of Jacobean society. One of the most significant targets of his satire is Fitzdottrel, a wealthy but foolish man obsessed with devils and witchcraft. Fitzdottrel’s belief in Pug’s devilish nature is comically misguided, and he readily becomes Pug’s unwitting accomplice. The irony is thick: Fitzdottrel, a man so eager to embrace evil, is too stupid to recognize it when it’s right in front of him.
Irony in Abundance
The title itself, “The Devil is an Ass,” is a bold statement on the human condition and the nature of evil. Jonson suggests that humans are often their own worst enemies, with or without diabolical interference. The real devils, he implies, are not the ones from Hell, but the fools among men. This theme is hilariously portrayed through characters like Wittipol and Manly, who are embroiled in schemes that are as ridiculous as they are cunning.
Character Contrasts
Wittipol, a gallant and clever young man, provides a stark contrast to Pug. His wit and resourcefulness highlight Pug’s ineptitude. Meanwhile, Manly, a straightforward and honest character, exposes the hypocrisy and deceit of those around him. Through these characters, Jonson crafts a narrative that is as much about human folly as it is about infernal meddling.
A Comedy of Errors
As Pug’s schemes unravel, he inadvertently helps to resolve the very conflicts he intended to create. His failures lead to revelations and reconciliations among the human characters. This ironic twist underscores Jonson’s point: the devil may indeed be an ass, but humans can be even greater fools.
Wit and Satire
Jonson’s sharp wit is evident throughout the play. His dialogue is rich with puns, double entendres, and clever wordplay. The satirical elements are pointed and unrelenting, skewering the greed, vanity, and superstition of his contemporaries. Yet, despite its biting humor, the play retains a light-hearted tone, inviting the audience to laugh at the ridiculousness of it all.
Social Commentary
Beyond its comedic surface, “The Devil is an Ass” offers astute observations on social and moral issues. Jonson critiques the obsession with wealth and status, the gullibility of people, and the pervasive corruption in society. He presents these themes through exaggerated characters and situations, making them both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Pug’s Inevitable Downfall
Pug’s journey is a series of comedic missteps. From his initial overconfidence to his ultimate failure, his story is a reminder of the perils of underestimating human nature. In the end, Pug is summoned back to Hell, his tail between his legs. His grand ambitions have come to nothing, leaving the audience to revel in the irony of his downfall.
Conclusion: A Playful Yet Profound Satire
“The Devil is an Ass” is a masterful blend of humor, irony, and social critique. Ben Jonson’s clever writing and keen observations create a timeless comedy that remains relevant today. The play invites us to laugh at the absurdities of human behavior while reflecting on our own follies. In Pug’s misadventures, we see a reflection of our own struggles and mistakes, making the devil’s antics all the more amusing.
So, there you have it: a devilish romp through the foibles of humanity, delivered with Jonson’s signature wit and irony. Whether you’re looking for a good laugh or a sharp social commentary, “The Devil is an Ass” offers both in spades. Enjoy the ride, and remember – sometimes, the devil is indeed an ass, but so too, are we all.
