Recount Text
Naura Umairah Lessadi and Rashiya
Ramadhani Karnain XI 1
The Life of Ben Jonson
Biography-
Orientation
Ben Jonson was a prominent English playwright, poet,
and literary critic who lived during the Elizabethan and
Jacobean eras. He was born in London on June 11,
1572, shortly after the death of his father. Raised by his
stepfather, a bricklayer, Jonson had a humble beginning.
However, his brilliance in classical studies at Westminster
School hinted at the great writer he would become. From
an early age, Jonson showed a passion for literature and
the stage, which later led him to become one of the most
influential figures in English Renaissance drama.
The Life of Ben Jonson
Events Events
Jonson began his career in the theater in the In the following years, Jonson wrote some of his
1590s. His first major success came in 1598 with most celebrated works, including Volpone (1606),
the comedy Every Man in His Humour, which was The Alchemist (1610), and Bartholomew Fair
performed by Shakespeare’s acting company. That (1614). His success earned him a position as court
same year, he was briefly imprisoned for killing a poet under King James I, and he was granted a
man in a duel, but he was released after using a pension by the crown. Beyond the stage, Jonson
legal plea based on his ability to read and write. was also a respected poet and critic, and he
Despite this early controversy, Jonson quickly influenced a generation of younger writers who
earned a reputation for his sharp wit and bold became known as the “Sons of Ben.” His command
criticism of social behavior through his plays. the of language and classical form helped shape the
most influential figures in English Renaissance standards of English drama and poetry for years to
drama. come.
The Life of Ben Jonson
Reorientation
Ben Jonson passed away on August 6, 1637, and was buried with
honor in Westminster Abbey, a rare tribute for a writer of his time.
His tomb bears the famous inscription, “O Rare Ben Jonson,” a
testament to his enduring legacy. Though often compared to
Shakespeare, Jonson carved his own path with his intellectual depth,
moral satire, and influence on English literary standards. Today, he is
remembered as one of the great architects of English literature whose
works continue to inspire readers and writers around the world.
The Story of Salman Rushdie's Life
Biography-
Orientation
Salman Rushdie is a renowned British-Indian author
known for his thought-provoking and controversial novels.
He was born on June 19, 1947, in Bombay (now
Mumbai), India, into a liberal Muslim family. After
completing his early education in India, he moved to
England and studied at Rugby School and later at the
University of Cambridge, where he earned a degree in
history. His multicultural background and deep
understanding of religion, politics, and literature would
later become central themes in his work.
The Story of Salman Rushdie's Life
Events
Rushdie’s literary career began with his debut novel Grimus in 1975, but he gained
international fame with his second novel, Midnight’s Children (1981), which won the
Booker Prize. The novel was praised for its magical realism and rich portrayal of post-
independence India, and it established Rushdie as one of the most important voices in
contemporary literature. He continued to write critically acclaimed works, including
Shame (1983) and The Moor’s Last Sigh (1995), both of which explore complex
historical and political issues through imaginative narratives.
However, his most controversial and dangerous moment came with the publication
of The Satanic Verses in 1988. The book was considered blasphemous by many
Muslims, leading to widespread protests. In 1989, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah
Khomeini issued a fatwa calling for Rushdie’s death. As a result, he was forced into
hiding for several years, living under police protection. Despite the threats, Rushdie
continued to write and speak out on issues of free speech and artistic freedom. Over
time, the immediate danger lessened, and he re-emerged into public life, receiving
numerous literary awards and honors for his courage and contributions to literature.
The Story
of
Salman Reorientation
Rushdie's Today, Salman Rushdie is celebrated not
Life only for his literary achievements but also for
his resilience and unwavering defense of
freedom of expression. Although he faced
life-threatening challenges, he continued to
write novels, essays, and memoirs that
challenge readers to think critically about
identity, religion, and politics. His life story
stands as a powerful reminder of the risks
artists sometimes face for their work—and
the strength required to persevere in the face
of censorship and danger.
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