The Rivals: A Comedy

The Rivals: A Comedy by Richard Brinsley Sheridan is a quintessential Comedy of Manners set in the fashionable society of Bath, England. The play revolves around the romantic misadventures and misunderstandings of its characters, primarily focusing on the young heiress Lydia Languish who yearns for a romanticized love as found in novels. She is courted by Captain Jack Absolute, who disguises himself as a poor ensign named Beverley to win her affection. The play features a cast of memorable characters, including the hilariously misguided Mrs. Malaprop, known for her misuse of words, which gave rise to the term ‘malapropism.’ The narrative weaves through a series of comic entanglements involving mistaken identities, duels, and romantic pursuits, all while satirizing the pretensions and affectations of the upper class. Richard Brinsley Sheridan (1751-1816) was an Irish-born playwright and politician. His works are celebrated for their wit and complex plots, and he is best known for plays like The School for Scandal and The Rivals . Sheridan’s influence on English theatre is profound, with his plays remaining popular to this day. —- ISBN: 9798324316099