Write about the Restoration Comedy of Manners.
History of English Literature is a notable literary work by ___. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of History of English Literature.
Answer
Write about the Restoration Comedy of Manners.
Restoration Comedy of Manners is a special type of play that became popular in England after the theatres reopened in 1660. This happened during the Restoration period (1660-1700), when King Charles II returned to the throne. Charles II brought back entertainment like theatre, which the Puritans had banned.
These comedies are called “Comedy of Manners” because they made fun of the behavior, manners, and lifestyle of rich people in society. Some famous playwrights of Restoration Comedy are William Congreve, George Etherege, William Wycherley, and Aphra Behn.
Witty and Clever Dialogues: Restoration comedies are full of smart and funny conversations. The characters do not speak in simple ways; instead, they use sharp and clever words. This is called wit. William Congreve is famous for writing witty dialogues. In his play “The Way of the World,” Witwoud says:
“Friendship without freedom is as dull as love without enjoyment.”
Rich and Fashionable Society: Restoration comedies always show the rich upper class. These people care about fashion, gossip, and reputation more than honesty or love. The plays make fun of their superficial behavior. In “The Way of the World,” William Congreve shows how rich people behave in love and marriage.
Moral Lesson: Restoration comedies have moral lessons. Even though these plays are funny, they also criticize society. “The Way of the World” makes fun of how people use marriage for money and power instead of love. Mirabell, for example, wants to marry Millamant for money.
In short, the Restoration Comedy of Manners is full of clever conversations, romance, and silly situations. These plays make fun of the behavior, manners, and lifestyle of rich people in society. Even today, people enjoy watching and reading these plays.