Author
William Congreve
1670-1729
William Congreve (1670-1729) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by William Congreve
The Way of the World
"The Way of the World" by William Congreve is a comedy play first performed in 1700. Set among London's upper class, it follows the intricate romance between Mirabell and Millamant, who must navigate deception, social maneuvering, and family obstacles to marry. Mirabell needs Lady Wishfort's blessing to secure Millamant's full dowry, but the bitter widow despises him and prefers her own nephew as a suitor. Through elaborate schemes and witty dialogue, the play satirizes marriage as a business transaction while exploring themes of love, reputation, and high society's superficiality.
Love for Love: A Comedy
"Love for Love: A Comedy by William Congreve" is a Restoration comedy written in 1695. Valentine, a young man drowning in debt, signs away his inheritance to escape his creditors and win his father's help. But when he realizes his mistake, he must resort to desperate measures—even feigning madness—to avoid losing everything. Meanwhile, the wealthy Angelica holds the key to his fate, though her true intentions remain unclear until the final moment.
The Library of William Congreve
"The Library of William Congreve" by John C. Hodges is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. This work delves into the life and literary collection of William Congreve, an important figure of the English Restoration period, known for his plays and contributions to drama. The primary focus of the book is on Congreve's personal library, exploring the titles and influences that shaped his work. At the start of the publication, the introduction sets the stage by discussing Congreve's death in 1729 and the subsequent fate of his book collection. It introduces the key players involved, such as his friend Jacob Tonson, who valued Congreve's library, and the Duchess of Marlborough, to whom the books were bequeathed. Hodges describes the journey of the library, including its tedium of cataloging the titles, and explores the significance of these works in understanding Congreve’s scholarly interests, contemporary literary connections, and the enduring legacy of his contributions to literature.
The Old Bachelor: A Comedy
"The Old Bachelor: A Comedy" by William Congreve is a play produced in 1693. Heartwell, a bitter bachelor who claims to scorn women, falls for Silvia and marries her—only to discover she's another man's discarded mistress. But the wedding may not be what it seems. Meanwhile, deceptions multiply as friends disguise themselves, foolish knights chase wealthy heiresses, and a young wife schemes behind her jealous husband's back. This Restoration comedy weaves together multiple romantic intrigues where nothing is quite as it appears.
The Double-Dealer: A Comedy
"The Double-Dealer: A Comedy" by William Congreve is a comic play first produced in 1693. When Mellefont prepares to marry Cynthia, he faces unexpected enemies: Lady Touchwood, who desires him for herself, and Maskwell, his supposed friend who secretly plots to steal his bride. Through deception and manipulation, Maskwell turns families against each other, leading Lord Touchwood to disinherit Mellefont. This Restoration comedy explores betrayal, jealousy, and schemes that threaten to destroy lives and fortunes.
Incognita; Or, Love and Duty Reconcil'd
"Incognita; Or, Love and Duty Reconcil'd" by William Congreve is a novel written in the late 17th century, during the Restoration era. The novel explores the themes of love and duty through the intertwining lives of its main characters, Aurelian and Hippolito, who are caught in a complex web of romance and obligation as they navigate youthful relationships in Florence. The opening portion of the novel introduces the backdrop of Florence, highlighting the lavish preparations for an upcoming wedding. It establishes Aurelian as a well-educated young gentleman and gives insight into his close friendship with Hippolito, a Spanish nobleman. Their anticipation for the forthcoming festivities sets the tone for their adventures. As they arrive in Florence, they seek to immerse themselves in the excitement of the city, with plans to partake in balls and masquerades. The narrative intertwines their longing for love with the societal expectations of marriage, creating an undercurrent of tension as they both engage with mysterious ladies who captivate their hearts while grappling with familial pressures and personal desires.
The Comedies of William Congreve: Volume 1 [of 2]
"The Comedies of William Congreve: Volume 1 [of 2]" by William Congreve is a collection of comedic plays written in the late 17th century. The book features Congreve's exploration of love, relationships, and social satire, showcasing the wit and charm characteristic of Restoration-era comedy. The prominent characters include various suitors navigating romantic entanglements, alongside figures like the old bachelor Heartwell and the capricious Vainlove. The opening of this volume begins with an introduction discussing Congreve's perspective as a writer and the themes of his comedies. It addresses the criticism aimed at the immorality and coarseness in his work, asserting that satirical and comedic engagements with societal vices are not only expected but serve as an artistic pursuit. Characters are introduced through witty dialogues and banter, establishing a narrative steeped in relationships and the social dynamics of love, exemplified by interactions between Bellmour and Vainlove, as they navigate their romantic endeavors and evaluate the complexities of desire and attraction. The tone is light-hearted, filled with clever wordplay and a keen observation of character, setting the stage for the humorous unraveling of society's follies.