The Alchemist

In the vibrant and bustling streets of Jacobean London, where art, science, and ambition converge, Ben Jonson’s comedy unfolds as a riotous tale of deception, greed, and the absurdity of human folly. Meet a motley crew of characters led by the cunning and charismatic Face, a consummate con artist. Together, they embark on a series of elaborate scams, exploiting the gullibility and desires of the city’s residents. With their dubious talents, they pose as alchemists, promising to transform base metals into gold and offering tantalizing solutions to life’s problems. Set against the backdrop of a city in the throes of transformation, this story is a masterful satire that explores the timeless themes of greed, credulity, and the absurd lengths to which people will go to pursue their desires. The author’s sharp wit and biting humour lay bare the foibles of human nature and the comical consequences of unchecked ambition. Prepare to be transported to a world where artifice and deception reign supreme, and where the pursuit of riches and power takes centre stage in this classic comedy by Ben Jonson.

© 2025 Sonnet Books (Ebook): 9789359905334

Release date

Ebook: 30 January 2025