She Stoops to Conquer

Definition

'She Stoops to Conquer' is a comedy by Oliver Goldsmith that was first performed in 1773, which cleverly critiques social class distinctions and the nature of courtship. The play explores themes of mistaken identity and the behaviors people adopt when they interact with different social classes. Goldsmith uses humor and wit to expose the absurdities of societal norms, particularly concerning gender roles and marriage during the 18th century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'She Stoops to Conquer' showcases the reversal of traditional gender roles, with the female protagonist, Kate Hardcastle, taking an active role in pursuing her love interest, Marlow.
2. The play is considered a classic example of 18th-century comedy, blending elements of farce with sharp social commentary on class and marriage.
3. Goldsmith's work contrasts the characters from different social standings, revealing how class perceptions influence personal relationships.
4. The character of Mr. Hardcastle embodies the rigid attitudes of the gentry, while Marlow represents the complexities of masculinity and social anxiety.
5. The play's title reflects Kate's strategy to lower herself socially in order to gain Marlow's affection, challenging societal expectations regarding women.

Review Questions

• How does 'She Stoops to Conquer' reflect the characteristics of 18th-century comedy and its focus on social commentary?
  • 'She Stoops to Conquer' exemplifies 18th-century comedy through its witty dialogue, mistaken identities, and exploration of class dynamics. The humor arises from the interactions between characters of different social standings, highlighting their absurdities. Goldsmith critiques societal norms surrounding gender roles and marriage while providing a humorous lens through which audiences can engage with serious themes about identity and perception.
• In what ways do the character dynamics in 'She Stoops to Conquer' challenge traditional views of gender roles during the 18th century?
  • The dynamics between Kate Hardcastle and Marlow serve as a direct challenge to traditional gender roles of the time. Kate actively pursues Marlow while adopting a guise that allows her to navigate class barriers. This action defies expectations for women's behavior in romantic pursuits, showcasing her intelligence and agency. By portraying a woman who takes control of her romantic destiny, Goldsmith subverts norms that typically confined women to passive roles in courtship.
• Evaluate how Goldsmith uses humor in 'She Stoops to Conquer' as a tool for social critique on class distinctions and marriage.
  • Goldsmith employs humor in 'She Stoops to Conquer' as a means to critique rigid class distinctions and societal expectations surrounding marriage. The comedic misunderstandings and absurd situations allow audiences to reflect on the ridiculousness of social hierarchies. By depicting characters who navigate these norms through humor, Goldsmith effectively encourages viewers to reconsider their values regarding love, identity, and societal roles, prompting deeper conversations about these themes that resonate beyond the 18th century.

Related terms

Comedy of Manners: 'Comedy of Manners' is a genre that satirizes the manners and affectations of a particular social class, often using witty dialogue and intricate plots to highlight the follies of its characters.

Mistaken Identity:

'Mistaken Identity' is a common plot device where characters are confused for one another, leading to comedic situations that drive the narrative and develop themes related to perception and reality.

Social Satire: 'Social Satire' refers to a literary approach that criticizes societal norms and behaviors through humor, exaggeration, and irony, aiming to provoke thought and change in public attitudes.