The Dynamic Duo in Volpone :: Volpone

The Dynamic Duo in Volpone While Mosca and Volpone, the "dynamic duo" in this play, share many similarities, they are still different enough to compliment one another. On one hand, both characters are alike in that they share a common lust for deceit, making their living by tricking others. They take delight in conjuring up and performing elaborate schemes in order to fool people. This becomes a game for the two of them, which they both enjoy playing immensely. Perhaps the common love of this game is what knits Volpone's heart so tightly to Mosca's. On the other hand, Mosca seems to be a little sharper and wittier than Volpone. Where Volpone tends to be slightly dull or slow, Mosca makes up for his lack by being ingenious for him. For example, in act 3.4, Volpone boils in frustration because he cannot successfully persuade or trick Lady Would-be into leaving his presence. He attempts to make her leave several times, but is ineffective. Finally, at the height of his despair, Mosca walks in, and with one breath, comes up with a brilliant falsehood that sends Lady Would-be running out the door. This unfailing ability of Mosca's to invent schemes while under pressure is what makes him so useful to Volpone and keeps the duo together. Mosca's quick thinking compliments Volpone's slow wit. Another characteristic that Mosca possesses in abundance that Volpone does not necessarily have is the ability to flatter. Throughout the play, Mosca displays a clever ability to play off of other people's pride by inflating their egos so that they will be consumed with their own vanity. Then, once the other person has his eyes solely on himself, he is vulnerable to fall for any scheme of Mosca's. This tricky character plays this game of flattery with almost every character in the play, including Volpone. Because Volpone is not witty enough to see that his side-kick treats him with the same craftiness that he uses on the clients, he is