Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Ben Jonson

A new month, and a new episode of BardCast! This one is about Ben Jonson, he was a pretty cool guy, if rather stuck-up. Please respond to our newest poll, while you're here!

This is one of the better sources of Jonson's works.

Things I forgot to mention this episode:
  • Ben Jonson was probably a bricklayer before he became a professional writer. It's not for sure, but it's the most likely job. 
  • Ben Jonson once got in trouble for writing a semi-treasonous play, and he learned from that never to write against the monarchy.
To Celia,
Drink to me only with thine eyes
And I will pledge with mine. Or leave a kiss but in the cup
And I'll not look for wine.

The thirst that from the soul doth rise
Doth ask a drink divine;
But might I of Jove's nectar sup,
I would not change for thine.

I sent thee late a rosy wreath,
Not so much hon'ring thee
As giving it a hope that there
It could not withered be;

But thou thereon did'st only breathe,
And sent'st it back to me,
Since when it grows and smells, I swear
Not of itself, but thee.
(Thanks, Wikipedia!)