The Complex Relationship between Ben Jonson and Shakespeare: Critical Evaluation and Mutual Respect

In the annals of English literature, the relationship between Ben Jonson and William Shakespeare presents a unique case study in the dynamics of literary camaraderie and rivalry. While Jonson revered Shakespeare as a master playwright, he also critiqued him with an acerbic wit that revealed both admiration and criticism. This tension is rooted in multiple factors, including the societal context of the time and the personal ambitions and motivations of the two playwrights.

Admiration and Criticism

Jonson's affection for Shakespeare is evident in his obituary poem for the bard, where he wrote, 'I loved the man, and do honour a memory on this side idolatry, as much as any.' Despite this profound respect, Jonson was not afraid to express his critical opinions. In a famous quote, he stated, 'My answer hath been ‘Would he had blotted a thousand’' which reflects his belief that Shakespeare could have improved his work. Jonson also could not resist poking fun at Shakespeare's education in the dedication of the First Folio, jesting that Shakespeare had 'small Latin and less Greek.'

Societal Context and Theatrical Values

The theater of Jonson's time was often viewed as a mere form of entertainment, lacking the depth and enduring value accorded to Shakespearean plays. Jonson, along with other playwrights, sought to elevate the status of the stage by infusing it with erudition and classical imagery. In his 1616 Folio, Jonson included his own plays, which garnered him the ire of a critic who dismissed his works by saying, 'Pray tell me Ben, where doth the mystery lurk / What others call a play you call a work.'

This criticism, while harsh, suggests that Jonson was frustrated by Shakespeare's cavalier approach to factual accuracy and literary refinement in his plays. Jonson believed that by adhering more strictly to historical and classical references, the theatrical works could attain the status of literature.

The Rivalry and Personal Motivations

Some scholars argue that the tension between Jonson and Shakespeare reflects a rivalry and mutual jealousy. However, this simplistic view may not fully capture their complex relationship. The real source of Jonson's criticism might have been a desire to elevate the theater and its practitioners to a higher, more respected level of cultural significance. This ambition was intertwined with a personal pride in his own literary achievements, which sometimes manifested as self-promotion and a subtle denigration of Shakespeare.

Furthermore, Jonson's plays, which are often dense with classical allusions and erudite references, can be seen as a deliberate attempt to distinguish himself from the more straightforward and accessible style of Shakespeare. Shakespeare, on the other hand, often served his classical allusions through his characters, creating a more fluid and organic weaving of references into the fabric of his plays. This is perhaps why Jonson felt that Shakespeare's approach sometimes felt forced and pedantic, much like the process of fattening a goose.

Legacy and Impact

Despite their criticisms, Jonson and Shakespeare had a profound impact on each other and on the theatrical landscape of their time. Shakespeare's popularity endures, with his plays being performed more often than those of Jonson, reflecting a broader audience appeal. However, the legacy of Jonson and his desire to elevate the status of the theater remains an important part of the literary history of the period.

Both playwrights left indelible marks on the English canon, each in their own unique way. Shakespeare's plays are celebrated for their accessibility and universal themes, while Jonson is remembered for his erudition and his efforts to bring literary rigor to the theater. This complex and nuanced relationship between the two of them offers a fascinating glimpse into the dynamics of literary collaboration and rivalry.