Every Man Out of His Humour

"Every Man Out of His Humour" is a satirical comedy by Ben Jonson that delves into the absurdities and pretensions of human behavior. The play is a sequel to Jonson's earlier work, "Every Man in His Humour," and continues to explore the theme of "humours," or dominant personality traits, that drive individuals to ridiculous extremes. The narrative unfolds through a series of interconnected plots involving a diverse cast of characters, each embodying a specific humour. The central figures include Macilente, a scholar embittered by envy; Puntarvolo, a knight obsessed with his own singularity; Carlo Buffone, a scurrilous jester; and Fastidious Brisk, a fashion-conscious courtier. The play is structured as a series of vignettes that satirize the social mores and affectations of Elizabethan society, with Jonson employing sharp wit and incisive dialogue to critique the follies of his characters. Through its intricate characterizations and clever use of language, "Every Man Out of His Humour" offers a humorous yet biting commentary on the human condition, highlighting the universal tendency towards self-deception and vanity.