"The Staple of News" By Ben Jonson
0"The Staple of News" by Ben Jonson is a satirical play that delves into the theme of information, its dissemination, and the societal obsession with news and gossip. Set in the fictional city of Cymbeline, Jonson explores the impact of the news industry on individuals and society at large.
The play revolves around the character of Pennyboy Junior, a young man who inherits his father's fortune and becomes entangled in the whirlwind of the news market. The title, "The Staple of News," alludes to the idea that news has become a commodity, a staple product in society that drives people's interests and behaviors.
Central to the narrative is the creation of "The Staple of News," a news agency run by Pennyboy Junior, which aims to supply the latest and most sensational news to the public. However, Jonson uses this premise to critique the sensationalism and fabrication often associated with news reporting. He portrays the news industry as a realm where truth is secondary to attracting attention and selling stories, reflecting the playwright's skepticism about the authenticity and reliability of news sources.
Through the character of Pennyboy Junior, Jonson satirizes the naivety and eagerness of individuals to consume and believe in sensational news. Pennyboy becomes engrossed in the business of fabricating news, highlighting how the pursuit of profit and popularity can compromise the integrity of information. Jonson critiques the public's appetite for scandalous and exaggerated stories, questioning their willingness to accept such tales without scrutiny.
The play also features allegorical figures such as "Pennyboy Senior" and "Pennyboy's Wife," representing different aspects of society's relationship with news. Pennyboy Senior embodies the older generation's skepticism towards the new wave of sensationalism, while Pennyboy's Wife represents the gullibility and fascination of the masses with exaggerated stories.
Jonson's language and dialogue in the play are rich with puns, wordplay, and wit, showcasing his mastery of language and his ability to entertain while delivering a critical message. The comedic elements serve as a vehicle for Jonson to highlight the absurdity of the news industry and society's obsession with gossip and scandal.
Moreover, Jonson uses the setting of Cymbeline as a microcosm of society, where different social classes and characters interact. This allows him to explore the impact of news on various segments of society, revealing how sensationalism affects both the elite and the common people.
The play concludes with a moralistic tone, as Pennyboy Junior's venture into the news industry ends in failure. This ending serves as a cautionary tale, warning against the dangers of prioritizing sensationalism over truth and integrity. Jonson's underlying message seems to advocate for a more discerning and critical approach to consuming news, urging the audience to question the authenticity of the information presented to them.
In essence, "The Staple of News" is a sharp critique of the news industry, highlighting the manipulation of truth, the allure of sensationalism, and the societal repercussions of consuming fabricated stories. Through its witty dialogue, vivid characters, and satirical portrayal of news culture, Jonson's play remains a thought-provoking commentary on the nature of information and its influence on society.