Character Sketch of Mosca
Mosca is a prominent character in Ben Jonson's play "Volpone," which was first performed in
1606. He serves as the cunning and manipulative assistant to the main character, Volpone, and
plays a crucial role in the unfolding of the plot. Mosca's name is Italian for "fly," which perfectly
encapsulates his nature as a sly and opportunistic character who buzzes around, seeking
advantage at every turn.
Physically, Mosca is often described as being of average height, possessing a quick and agile
demeanor that matches his sharp wit. He has a certain charm about him that allows him to be
persuasive, gaining people's trust while hiding his true intentions beneath a friendly façade. His
appearance and mannerisms, combined with his silver-tongued eloquence, make him a master of
deception.
Mosca's intellect is his greatest asset. He is exceptionally intelligent and cunning, always
thinking several steps ahead in his pursuit of wealth and power. He takes immense pleasure in
manipulating others, using their weaknesses and desires to orchestrate intricate schemes. Mosca
is a master of flattery, knowing precisely how to stroke egos and exploit individuals'
vulnerabilities to serve his purpose.
Despite being an opportunist, Mosca is remarkably loyal to Volpone. He is fully aware that his
fortunes are directly tied to the success of his patron's schemes. His dedication to serving
Volpone is unwavering, and he doesn't hesitate to lie, cheat, and deceive to protect his master's
interests. The relationship between Mosca and Volpone is one of mutual dependency, with both
relying on each other's abilities to achieve their respective goals.
Mosca's primary motivation is the pursuit of material wealth. He is willing to do anything to
accumulate riches and is relentless in his quest to secure his financial future. His ambitions are
boundless, and he is always on the lookout for fresh opportunities to exploit. Mosca's drive for
wealth is so overwhelming that he becomes blinded to the moral implications of his actions.
Throughout the play, Mosca consistently exhibits a dark sense of humor. He enjoys mocking and
ridiculing others, often using wordplay and puns to deride them. His wit is razor-sharp and acts
as a weapon in his arsenal of manipulation. However, his humor also serves as a mask,
concealing his true emotions and motivations from those around him.
Despite his cunning and ruthlessness, Mosca's character possesses a certain complexity. Beneath
his deceitful exterior lies a desire for recognition and validation. He longs for acknowledgment
and seeks approval from those he admires, including Volpone. This need for approval drives him
to perform ever more daring feats of manipulation, hoping to gain the respect he craves.
As the play progresses, Mosca's schemes become increasingly convoluted, leading to a series of
hilarious and chaotic events. However, his cleverness and resourcefulness eventually become his
downfall, as his web of lies begins to unravel, culminating in a dramatic climax that reveals the
true nature of his character.
In conclusion, Mosca is a captivating and multifaceted character in "Volpone." His intelligence,
wit, and unscrupulous nature make him an excellent foil to the other characters in the play. His
complex motivations and unwavering loyalty to Volpone make him a memorable and compelling
figure, leaving a lasting impression on audiences long after the final curtain falls.