Characterized by witty and satirical dialogue among "plain folks," these 4 comedy classics defined a new era in drama. The Country Wife by William Wycherley; The Man of Mode by Sir George Etheredge; The Rover by Aphra Benn; and The Relapse by Sir John Vanbrugh remain popular works among drama and English Literature students.
The Way of the World by William Congreve Greatest of all Restoration comedies depicts the scheming of a nest of shallow, deceitful aristocrats to prevent two lovers from marrying. Delicious verbal battles of the sexes, exceptional depths of feeling and sensitivity.
The Beggar’s Opera by John Gay A receiver of stolen goods informs on his chief supplier, setting in motion an increasingly absurd turn of events. This satirical 1728 play was to become the prototype for Threepenny Opera.
She Stoops to Conquer by Oliver Goldsmith Charming satire concerns a young lady who poses as a serving girl to win the heart of a young gentleman too shy to court ladies of his own class. Notes.
Ten Plays by Anton Chekhov The Sea Gull, Uncle Vanya, The Three Sisters, The Cherry Orchard, and Ivanov, plus 5 one-act comedies: The Anniversary, An Unwilling Martyr, The Wedding, The Bear, and The Proposal.
The Rivals by Richard Brinsley Sheridan Immensely popular comedy of manners featuring such memorable characters as the lovely Lydia Languish, her suitor, Capt. Jack Absolute; and Lydia's aunt — Mrs. Malaprop, cleverly revolves around false identities, romantic entanglements, and parental disapproval.
