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The Alchemist | Essays and Criticism

• The Plague and Social Dysfunction in The Alchemist

  In this essay, the author discusses Jonson's symbolic use of the plague to satirize social dysfunction.

• Offensive Odors in The Alchemist

  In this essay, the author discusses the allusions to odors—particularly offensive ones—that characterize the emotional content of a scene in The Alchemist.

• Sepulchral Odors at Lincoln Center

  While the author complains of the lackluster production in performance at Lincoln Center, he does note that Jonson's play is "one of the three most perfect plays in literature"—a fact that is not diminished by mundane performances and staging.

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1. The Alchemist: Introduction
2. The Alchemist: Summary
   1. Act I Summary
   2. Act II Summary
   3. Act III Summary
   4. Act IV Summary
   5. Act V Summary
3. The Alchemist: Ben Jonson Biography
4. The Alchemist: Themes
5. The Alchemist: Style
6. The Alchemist: Historical Context
7. The Alchemist: Critical Overview
8. The Alchemist: Character Analysis
   1. Jeremy Butler
   2. Abel Drugger
   3. Epicure Mammon
   4. Other Characters
9. The Alchemist: Essays and Criticism
   1. The Plague and Social Dysfunction in The Alchemist
   2. Offensive Odors in The Alchemist
   3. Sepulchral Odors at Lincoln Center
10. The Alchemist: Compare and Contrast
11. The Alchemist: Topics for Further Study
12. The Alchemist: What Do I Read Next?
13. The Alchemist: Bibliography and Further Reading
14. The Alchemist: Pictures
15. Copyright

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