Intellectual Pursuits
The characters in the play are all preoccupied with their appearances, statuses, and reputations. Crites, one of the only redeemable characters in the play, is ironically criticized by the others for his interest in intellectual pursuits. The other courtiers refer to him as a "candle-waster," suggesting that his desire to gain knowledge is a waste of time. Of course, Jonson pokes fun at this perspective by showing how Crites is the only character of whom the gods approve.
Asotus's Success
Throughout the play, Asotus attempts to become a courtier even though he is a foolish and financially irresponsible gallant. It is ironic that he enjoys some success at these attempts however, because it suggests that being a courtier is a performative affair rather than a matter of individual merit.
The Fountain
The fountain is an ironic symbol in the play based on the myth of Narcissus from which it originated. The fountain makes one enamored with oneself, turning self-love into the only pursuit. Being so in love with oneself prevents Narcissus from loving anyone else and ultimately leads to his lonely demise.
Cynthia
The play is titled Cynthia's Revels and the whole reason behind the courtiers gathering in the valley is because Cynthia decrees "solemn revels" throughout the land. There are frequent allusions to Cynthia throughout the play, but she herself does not appear until the very end, when she unmasks the players in the masque. This lack of presence from Cynthia is meant to evoke her – and by extension, Elizabeth I's – sense of governing power as she can be present even in her absence, like a god.
