Major Restoration Plays to Know for Restoration Literature

Major Restoration plays reflect the vibrant social dynamics and shifting values of the time. They tackle themes like love, marriage, and gender roles, often using humor and satire to critique societal norms and explore the complexities of human relationships.

1. The Country Wife by William Wycherley

   • Explores themes of sexual politics and social hypocrisy in Restoration England.
   • Features the character of Horner, who pretends to be impotent to gain access to the wives of other men.
   • Critiques the institution of marriage and the roles of men and women in society.

2. The Man of Mode by George Etherege

   • Centers on the character of Dorimant, a fashionable young man navigating love and social status.
   • Highlights the contrast between genuine emotion and superficiality in relationships.
   • Reflects the libertine culture of the Restoration period, emphasizing wit and charm.

3. The Way of the World by William Congreve

   • Focuses on the complexities of love and marriage, particularly through the characters Mirabell and Millamant.
   • Examines the theme of manipulation and the art of courtship in a society driven by wealth and status.
   • Known for its intricate plot and sharp dialogue, showcasing Congreve's mastery of comedy.

4. The Rover by Aphra Behn

   • Features a strong female protagonist, Hellena, who defies societal norms to pursue her desires.
   • Explores themes of freedom, sexual agency, and the role of women in a patriarchal society.
   • Combines elements of farce and romance, highlighting the complexities of love and identity.

5. Love for Love by William Congreve

   • Centers on the theme of love as a form of negotiation and the complexities of romantic relationships.
   • Introduces the character of Valentine, who must choose between love and financial security.
   • Blends humor with serious commentary on the nature of love and obligation.

6. The Rehearsal by George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham

   • A satirical take on the conventions of Restoration drama and the theatrical world.
   • Critiques the pretentiousness of contemporary playwrights and the absurdities of their plots.
   • Uses humor and parody to engage with the audience's expectations of drama.

7. All for Love by John Dryden

   • A tragic retelling of the story of Antony and Cleopatra, focusing on themes of love and betrayal.
   • Emphasizes the moral dilemmas faced by the characters, contrasting love with duty.
   • Known for its poetic language and dramatic intensity, marking a shift from comedy to tragedy in Restoration literature.

8. The Relapse by John Vanbrugh

   • A sequel to "The Provoked Wife," it explores themes of infidelity and the consequences of desire.
   • Features a complex plot with multiple characters entangled in romantic pursuits.
   • Highlights the moral ambiguities of love and the societal pressures surrounding marriage.

9. The Beaux' Stratagem by George Farquhar

   • Combines elements of farce and romance, focusing on two young men who scheme to win the hearts of wealthy women.
   • Explores themes of class, deception, and the pursuit of happiness.
   • Celebrated for its lively characters and humorous dialogue, reflecting the spirit of Restoration comedy.

10. The Recruiting Officer by George Farquhar

• Set in a provincial town, it examines themes of patriotism, love, and social class.
• Features a witty portrayal of military life and the recruitment process during the Restoration period.
• Blends comedy with social commentary, highlighting the absurdities of war and romance.