Subject
English drama -- Restoration, 1660-1700 Books
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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.
George Farquhar
The Recruiting Officer
"The Recruiting Officer" by George Farquhar is a play written in 1706. It follows two English Army officers—the womanizing Captain Plume and the cowardly Captain Brazen—as they recruit soldiers in Shrewsbury. Their military mission becomes entangled with romantic pursuits and social schemes. Sylvia disguises herself as a male recruit to be near Plume, while Worthy attempts to win back the now-wealthy Melinda. Through mistaken identities, dubious recruiting tactics, and romantic rivalries, the play weaves together the complications of love and ambition in this Restoration comedy.
Thomas Otway
The Orphan; Or, The Unhappy Marriage. A Tragedy, in Five Acts
"The Orphan; Or, The Unhappy Marriage" by Thomas Otway is a domestic tragedy written in 1680. Two brothers, Castalio and Polydore, both fall in love with Monimia, their father's young ward. When Castalio secretly marries her, Polydore overhears their plans and deceives his way into the wedding night using the arranged signal. The devastating discovery that follows sets all three on a path toward destruction. Written in blank verse, this play made Otway famous and remained popular on stage for nearly two centuries.
Thomas Otway
Venice Preserved: A Tragedy
"Venice Preserved: A Tragedy" by Thomas Otway is a tragedy first staged in 1682. In Venice, an impoverished nobleman named Jaffeir secretly marries Belvidera, whose senator father has disowned her. Drawn into a conspiracy against the Venetian Senate by his friend Pierre, Jaffeir becomes entangled in a web of betrayal, honor, and revenge. As political intrigue collides with personal loyalty, Jaffeir must navigate impossible choices between his wife, his friend, and his conscience—decisions that will lead to devastating consequences for all involved.
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