How Does Congreve Satirize the Contemporary Society in “The Way of the World?”

Answer

How does Congreve satirize the contemporary aristocratic English society in “The Way of the World?”

William Congreve (1670-1729) is an English playwright and Whig Party politician. He is a master of composing the satirical literary works. His  “The Way of the World” (1700) offers a vivid social picture of the Restoration period (1660-1688). This play also reflects the complexities of marriage, capital, and societal norms. Here are some key points that illustrate the contemporary social landscape.

Marriage as a Social Contract: The play portrays marriage as a romantic union and strategic alliance. Characters like Mirabell and Millamant negotiate their marriage terms. It suggests the transactional nature of relationships. This is evident when Millamant demands her “liberty” and “freedom” even after marriage. It shows the tension between personal autonomy and social expectations, as shown in her following words.

 One’s cruelty is one’s power. Act 2, Scene 5

Through these words, she expresses her fears over the matter of losing her liberty if she gets married.

Capital and Inheritance: Wealth and inheritance are central themes. The plot revolves around securing Lady Wishfort’s fortune, emphasizing how financial considerations often outweigh emotional bonds. Fainall’s scheme to control his wife’s and Lady Wishfort’s wealth underscores the mercenary motives driving many characters of the contemporary aristocratic English society.

Wits vs. Fools: Congreve contrasts witty and foolish characters. He uses this variation to critique societal norms. The prologue sets the tone by suggesting that the play will instruct the audience on distinguishing between wits and fools. Characters like Mirabell and Millamant represent wit, while Lady Wishfort and Sir Wilfull exemplify folly.

Gender Dynamics: The play explores the power struggle between men and women. Congreve displays why some couples are compatible while others are not, reflecting on the chemistry and relationship conflicts. For instance, the witty banter between Mirabell and Millamant showcases a more modern view of marriage based on mutual respect and intellectual compatibility. Here is a quotation to support the idea.

Have you any more conditions to offer? Hitherto your demands are pretty reasonable. Act 4, Scene 5

Mirabel agrees to whatever Millamant demands of their engagement. He truly loves her and will happily respect her freedom. The contract presents Mirabel as a modern protagonist in a Restoration period drama.

Social Status and Reputation: Reputation is a recurring concern. Characters are preoccupied with maintaining their social standing and avoiding scandal. Lady Wishfort becomes desperate to marry Sir Rowland to restore her dignity after being deceived by Mirabell. It highlights the importance placed on social perception.

Political Undertones: The play subtly weaves in political commentary reflecting its time. The Restoration period was marked by political instability and shifting power dynamics, mirrored in the characters’ manipulations and alliances. The backdrop of the Glorious Revolution, with its emphasis on lawful rule and Protestant values, parallels the play’s focus on legal and social contracts.

In summary, “The Way of the World” provides a rich tapestry of Restoration society.  This also examines the interplay of marriage, wealth, gender, wit, reputation, and politics, involving the the contemporary aristocratic English society. Congreve’s sharp dialogue and complex characters offer a satirical yet insightful look at the social mores of his time.