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57 pages 1 hour read

The Alchemist

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1610

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Book Brief

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Ben Jonson

The Alchemist

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1610
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

London, England • 1610s

Publication Year

1610

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Alchemist by Ben Jonson, three characters—Face, Subtle, and Dol—exploit the fear and greed of various London citizens by promising them the philosopher's stone and other mystical rewards, thus deceiving and stealing from them until the return of the house’s rightful owner, Lovewit, who ultimately disrupts their schemes and claims the stolen goods for himself. Themes of greed, deception, and justice are prevalent.

Humorous

Playful

Mysterious

Gritty

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

3.7

3,926 ratings

53%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

16%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Ben Jonson's The Alchemist is praised for its sharp wit and skillful satire of human greed and folly, showcasing Jonson’s adept use of language and character development. However, some readers find the plot overly complex and the humor dated. Overall, it is a commendable work for fans of classic English comedy, though it may challenge modern readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Alchemist?

A reader who enjoys The Alchemist by Ben Jonson would likely appreciate satirical comedy, Elizabethan literature, and intricate plots involving deception and greed. Similar in appeal to fans of Shakespeare's comedies and Marlowe’s plays, this work speaks to those who admire witty dialogue and characters embodying the folly of human ambition.

3.7

3,926 ratings

53%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

16%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

London, England • 1610s

Publication Year

1610

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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