Which playwright’s works often include themes of power and betrayal, as seen in "Mac Flecknoe"?

The correct answer is Ben Jonson. His works frequently explore themes of power and betrayal, utilizing satirical elements to critique social and political dynamics. In "Mac Flecknoe," Jonson engages with these themes, particularly through the portrayal of the literary rivalry between himself and his contemporary, Thomas Shadwell. This poem serves as a mock-heroic satire that not only examines artistic merit but also delves into the treachery inherent in the competition for influence and recognition within the literary world.

While other playwrights, such as Shakespeare, also engage with themes of power and betrayal in their works, Jonson's specific approach in "Mac Flecknoe" highlights his style of satire and the implications of artistic and intellectual supremacy more directly. John Bunyan, known for "The Pilgrim's Progress," focuses on spiritual journeys rather than dramatic explorations of power dynamics, while John Milton's works, such as "Paradise Lost," engage in broader themes of rebellion and divinity rather than the personal rivalries exemplified in Jonson's satire. Thus, Jonson aligns most closely with the themes presented in the question.