Ben Jonson When Pigs Fly

Ben Jonson's "When Pigs Fly": A Deep Dive into a Non-Existent Play and the Power of Proverbial Expressions

The phrase "when pigs fly" is a common idiom signifying an event that will never happen. While no play titled "When Pigs Fly" exists in the canon of Ben Jonson's works, exploring this nonexistent play allows us to delve into the rich world of Jonson's dramatic style, the evolution of proverbial expressions, and the enduring power of language to capture human experience. This article will investigate the possible thematic connections, stylistic elements that a hypothetical "When Pigs Fly" might have encompassed, and the broader significance of such proverbial expressions within the context of Jacobean England and beyond.

The Absence of "When Pigs Fly" and the Importance of Context

First, let's establish the critical fact: there's no record of Ben Jonson writing a play called "When Pigs Fly." This non-existent play, however, offers a fascinating opportunity to explore how Jonson's known works might inform the creation of a hypothetical piece carrying such a title. Understanding the context of Jonson's time and his literary style is crucial. He flourished during the Jacobean era, a period known for its intellectual ferment, social upheaval, and dramatic innovations. His plays, like Volpone, The Alchemist, and Bartholomew Fair, are renowned for their satirical wit, complex characters, and masterful use of language.

Imagining a Jonson Play: Thematic Possibilities for "When Pigs Fly"

If Ben Jonson had written "When Pigs Fly," what themes might he have explored? Considering his penchant for satire and social commentary, several possibilities emerge:

• The Absurdity of Impossible Dreams: The title itself points directly to the folly of chasing unattainable goals. Jonson might have satirized characters obsessed with fantastical schemes, their ambitions wildly disproportionate to their capabilities. This could have involved a plot revolving around a character striving for an impossible feat, highlighting the humorous consequences of unrealistic aspirations.

• The Corruption of Power and Society: Jonson often used his plays to expose the moral decay of his time. "When Pigs Fly" could have been a vehicle for criticizing societal ills, perhaps focusing on the corrupt machinations of the powerful or the hypocrisy of the privileged. The "pigs flying" could symbolize a metaphorical shift, suggesting that true justice or societal reform is as improbable as the literal event.

• The Nature of Belief and Deception: Jonson was a master of deception in his plays. A hypothetical "When Pigs Fly" could have explored the ease with which people are tricked or their belief in impossible promises. The play could feature characters who manipulate others with fantastical schemes, exploiting their naivety and desire for something better.

• The Power of Proverbial Language: The very use of the proverb "when pigs fly" in the title suggests a focus on the use of common sayings and their impact on society. The play might have explored how proverbs reflect societal norms, attitudes, and beliefs. It could even satirize the misuse or misinterpretation of such sayings.

Stylistic Elements: Jonson's Signature in a Hypothetical Play

To further imagine this nonexistent play, let's consider Jonson's typical dramatic style. We can expect several elements:

• Masterful Dialogue: Jonson's plays are characterized by witty, intelligent dialogue that reveals character and advances the plot. "When Pigs Fly" would likely feature sharp exchanges, wordplay, and clever uses of language, showcasing Jonson's mastery of dramatic expression.

• Complex Characters: Jonson's characters are rarely one-dimensional. They are nuanced, often contradictory individuals, driven by ambition, greed, or self-deception. A "When Pigs Fly" cast would likely include a diverse range of characters embodying these traits, engaging in complex interactions and conflicts.

• Satirical Wit: Jonson's satire is sharp and often merciless. "When Pigs Fly" would undoubtedly utilize satire to criticize societal flaws, hypocrisy, and human folly. The humor would likely be intellectual, relying on irony, wit, and the exposure of pretension.

• Use of Masques and Festive Elements: Though not always present, Jonson's work often incorporates elements of masques, celebrating the power of illusion and spectacle. A hypothetical "When Pigs Fly" might use these elements to contrast the fantastical aspirations of the characters with the harsh realities of their situation.

"When Pigs Fly" and the Evolution of Proverbial Expressions

The phrase "when pigs fly" has a long and interesting history. While its precise origins are uncertain, its usage in English dates back centuries. It epitomizes the power of proverbial expressions to capture complex ideas in concise, memorable forms. These expressions often draw upon imagery rooted in common experience, making them readily understandable across various social strata.

The enduring power of "when pigs fly" lies in its ability to convey the impossibility of a situation with humor and immediacy. It's a phrase that transcends time and cultural barriers, readily understood across generations and linguistic backgrounds. The phrase itself offers a direct contrast between the fantastical (pigs flying) and the mundane reality of the situation being described. This contrast underscores the absurdity of the implied impossibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does a play called "When Pigs Fly" actually exist by Ben Jonson?

A: No, there is no record of Ben Jonson writing a play with that title. The title is used here as a springboard to explore his potential thematic and stylistic approaches if he had.

Q: What are some of the other common idioms with similar meanings to "when pigs fly"?

A: Other idioms expressing similar sentiments of impossibility include "when hell freezes over," "when the cows come home," and "in a pig's eye." These phrases, like "when pigs fly," leverage vivid imagery to emphasize the improbability of an event.

Q: How did Ben Jonson's works influence later playwrights?

A: Ben Jonson's influence on later playwrights is substantial. His mastery of language, character development, and satirical wit influenced numerous playwrights of the Restoration era and beyond. His work continues to inspire writers and inspire reinterpretations of his themes.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Ben Jonson and Proverbial Wisdom

While "When Pigs Fly" remains a hypothetical play, exploring this possibility allows us to appreciate the depth and breadth of Ben Jonson's dramatic genius. His satirical wit, complex characters, and masterful use of language would undoubtedly have produced a captivating and thought-provoking piece exploring themes of ambition, deception, and the absurdity of impossible dreams. The phrase itself, "when pigs fly," exemplifies the enduring power of proverbial expressions to encapsulate complex ideas in a concise and memorable form, highlighting the ongoing relevance of language's ability to shape our understanding of the world. By imagining this nonexistent play, we not only engage with Jonson's legacy but also celebrate the rich tapestry of language and its ability to both amuse and illuminate the human experience. The enduring popularity of “when pigs fly” underscores the continuing power of simple, yet evocative, expressions to express complex ideas in a memorable and accessible manner. This makes the phrase a testament to the ongoing vitality of proverbial language and its lasting impact on our culture.