BardCast: The Shakespeare Podcast

Ben Jonson

08.02.2011 - By BardcastPlay

Download our free app to listen on your phone

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

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!)

More episodes from BardCast: The Shakespeare Podcast