She Stoops to Conquer: Or, The Mistakes of a Night

“”She Stoops to Conquer, Or, The Mistakes of a Night,”” written by Oliver Goldsmith and first performed in 1773, is a comedic play that satirizes the social and class distinctions of the 18th century. The story revolves around Charles Marlow, a young man who is nervous around upper-class women but quite charming with those of lower status. When Marlow visits the home of Mr. Hardcastle, he mistakenly believes it to be an inn. Kate Hardcastle, the daughter of Mr. Hardcastle, disguises herself as a barmaid to win Marlow’s affection. Through a series of humorous misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and clever deceptions, the characters navigate their way through the night, ultimately leading to love and reconciliation. The play’s wit, lively characters, and critique of social norms have made it a timeless classic in English literature. Oliver Goldsmith (1728-1774) was an Irish novelist, playwright, and poet, best known for his novel “”The Vicar of Wakefield”” and his play “”She Stoops to Conquer.”” Born in Ireland, Goldsmith studied at Trinity College, Dublin, and later moved to London, where he became part of the literary circle that included Samuel Johnson and Edmund Burke. Despite his financial struggles, Goldsmith’s works were well-received, and his contributions to literature have been celebrated for their wit, warmth, and keen social commentary. —- ISBN: 9798333099709