Author
John Vanbrugh
1664-1726
John Vanbrugh (1664-1726) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaBooks by John Vanbrugh
Plays, written by Sir John Vanbrugh, volume the first
"Plays" by Sir John Vanbrugh is a collection of dramatic works written in the late 17th century. This volume, the first of two, includes notable plays such as "The Relapse" and "The Provok'd Wife." Thematically, the works delve into the complexities of love and societal morality, often exploring the tensions between virtue and vice through the misadventures of various characters. The opening of "The Relapse," the first play included in this collection, introduces the leading character, Loveless, who delights in his tranquil domestic life but is soon drawn into a world of temptation. As he muses on the pleasures of love and the perils of returning to the indulgences of his youth, his wife Amanda expresses her concerns about the dangers of urban temptation, setting the stage for a conflict between fidelity and the allure of the past. Meanwhile, the play showcases a vibrant cast, including Young Fashion and Lord Foppington, who navigate their own comical yet troublesome pursuits, emphasizing the themes of misunderstanding and societal folly that are prevalent throughout Vanbrugh's work.
Plays, written by Sir John Vanbrugh, volume the second
"Plays" by Sir John Vanbrugh is a collection of theatrical works written in the early 18th century. This volume includes plays like "The Confederacy," "The Mistake," "The Country House," "A Journey to London," and "The Provok'd Husband," showcasing a satirical look at societal norms and relationships in Vanbrugh's time. The characters navigate themes of love, deception, and class distinction, with a focus on both humorous and critical examinations of their society. The opening of "Plays" introduces the play "The Confederacy" and centers around characters discussing their struggles with money, societal expectations, and the follies of social ambitions. It features Mrs. Amlet, a seller of various beauty items, lamenting her poor financial state while interacting with her neighbor Mrs. Cloggit. Their dialogue reveals the pressures of living beyond social means, as Mrs. Amlet discusses her hope of marrying her son to a wealthy woman, despite his reckless behavior. The introduction of Dick, Mrs. Amlet's son, establishes him as a roguish yet charming character entangled in schemes to improve his fortunes. This sets the tone for a comedic exploration of social aspirations and personal misadventures that lie ahead in the narrative.