Discuss the significance of the Proviso Scene in “The Way of the World.”

Answer

Write a short note on the Proviso Scene.

The Proviso Scene is in Act 4 of the play “The Way of the World” (1681). It is a funny but serious scene. Mirabell and Millamant talk about their marriage. They both make some conditions. This scene shows love, wit, and the wish for freedom. It also shows the problems of married life in the upper class of society.

Need for Freedom: Millamant wants freedom even after marriage. She says she will sleep as long as she likes. She will meet people of her choice. She will write and get letters. She wants her husband to knock before entering her room. She says, 

“My dear liberty, shall I leave thee? My faithful solitude, my darling contemplation, must I bid you adiue?”

No Fake Love: Millamant does not like fake love. She says she will not allow pet names like “my dear” or “sweetheart.” She will not kiss in public. She wants to act politely and respectfully. But she does not want to show off. She wants true love, not drama. 

Mirabell’s Turn: Mirabell also makes some rules. He says Millamant should not meet bad women. She should not go to the theatre in secret. She should not wear fake things. He says, 

“I prohibit all masks for the night, made of oiled skins and I know not what–hog’s bones, hare’s gall, pig water, and the marrow of a roasted cat.”

He wants her to be natural and simple. He agrees with Millamant’s ideas too.

In short, the Proviso Scene is very important. It is full of fun, but it also tells a lot. It shows that real love needs space and respect. Both lovers want a happy life, not a fake one. This scene is a good example of a proper understanding of marriage.