Topics for Further Study
The seventeenth century was marked by significant political turbulence in England. Investigate the era starting with the Civil War in the 1640s, which resulted in the collapse of the English monarchy, and continuing to the "Restoration" of Charles II in 1660. How did these political transformations influence the development of "Restoration Drama"? Specifically, how did the political climate contribute to the emergence and popularity of the "comedy of manners"?
Lady Wishfort is a pivotal comedic character in The Way of the World. As an aging yet still amorous dowager, she is a whimsical but determined controller of wealth and a twice-fooled lover, eager to marry and transparently superficial in her disdain for men. Her naïve yet daring heart makes her amusing. How would you stage the crucial opening of Act III, where Lady Wishfort is introduced for the first time? This will involve her interactions with Peg, Foible, and Mrs. Marwood until her departure from the scene.
John Dryden was a prominent literary figure of the seventeenth century and a strong advocate of Congreve's work. Dryden assisted Congreve in refining his immensely popular debut play, The Old Batchelour, for the London stage. Research Dryden's life and discuss the importance of his relationship with Congreve, as well as his impact on Restoration literature overall.
Read William Wycherley's The Country Wife. As an early instance of Restoration comedy, how does it compare to Congreve's The Way of the World, which was written twenty-five years later? What are some recurring themes and comedic techniques? What are some key differences?
Select a major character from The Way of the World. Explain why that character is crucial to the theme and plot. How is this character significant in relation to others in the play? How does the character's role enhance the overall comedic effect? Refer directly to specific lines from the text in your analysis.
It is often said that every good comedy contains a touch of tragedy. Identify the tragic elements in The Way of the World. Does the play conclude with a happy ending?
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