The way of the world

Definition

The way of the world refers to the social norms, behaviors, and attitudes that define human interactions within a given society, particularly highlighting the often cynical view of love, marriage, and morality. In the context of Restoration Comedy, this concept exposes the duplicity of human nature and the social machinations that dictate relationships and personal motivations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The way of the world often depicts love as transactional and motivated by self-interest rather than genuine affection.
2. Restoration Comedies frequently use misunderstandings and deceptions to illustrate the complexities of social interactions.
3. This concept often serves as a critique of societal norms, exposing how individuals navigate a world rife with hypocrisy.
4. Characters in Restoration Comedies typically embody exaggerated traits that reveal the absurdities of their social environments.
5. The way of the world reflects a shift in societal values during the Restoration period, moving towards a more modern understanding of relationships.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of the way of the world influence character development in Restoration Comedy?
  • The way of the world shapes characters in Restoration Comedy by emphasizing their motivations and behaviors as reflections of societal norms. Characters often display traits such as cunning, deceit, and manipulation, which highlight their attempts to navigate complex social dynamics. This influence leads to comedic situations where misunderstandings arise from characters' efforts to fulfill personal desires while adhering to societal expectations.
• Analyze how the way of the world serves as a critique of social structures in Restoration Comedy.
  • The way of the world acts as a powerful critique by exposing the hypocrisy inherent in social structures and relationships. Through witty dialogue and satirical plots, Restoration Comedies reveal how characters often mask their true intentions behind socially acceptable facades. This critique encourages audiences to question societal norms regarding love, marriage, and morality, illustrating that personal happiness is frequently sacrificed for societal approval.
• Evaluate the impact of the way of the world on contemporary views of love and relationships as reflected in modern media.
  • The way of the world has significantly influenced contemporary perspectives on love and relationships by perpetuating themes of cynicism and complexity. Modern media continues to reflect these ideas through narratives that portray romantic relationships as fraught with challenges stemming from societal expectations. By examining characters who struggle with authenticity in their relationships, contemporary works echo the critical insights found in Restoration Comedy, prompting audiences to consider the ongoing relevance of social dynamics in their own lives.

Related terms

Restoration Comedy: A genre of English comedy that emerged in the late 17th century, characterized by witty dialogue, intricate plots, and a focus on romantic entanglements and social satire.

Satire:

A literary technique used to expose and criticize foolishness or corruption in individuals or society through humor, irony, or ridicule.

Social Commentary: The act of using rhetorical means to provide commentary on issues in a society, often highlighting flaws or advocating for change through various forms of art and literature.