Comedy of manners

Definition

A comedy of manners is a theatrical genre that satirizes the behaviors and social customs of the upper class, often highlighting their pretensions and superficialities. This form of comedy emphasizes wit and clever dialogue while portraying the complexities of romantic relationships and societal expectations. The genre became prominent during the Restoration period, reflecting the shifting dynamics of society and the focus on the intricacies of personal interactions among the elite.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Comedy of manners often revolves around intricate love plots that expose the hypocrisy and moral shortcomings of its characters.
2. The dialogue in a comedy of manners is typically fast-paced and filled with repartee, showcasing the characters' intelligence and social acumen.
3. Key playwrights associated with this genre include William Congreve and Richard Brinsley Sheridan, who used their works to critique the superficiality of high society.
4. The settings are usually limited to private spaces like drawing rooms or salons, emphasizing the intimate nature of the social interactions taking place.
5. Comedy of manners not only entertained audiences but also served as a reflection of contemporary social norms and the evolving roles of men and women in society.

Review Questions

• How does comedy of manners reflect the social dynamics and issues of its time?
  • Comedy of manners reflects the social dynamics of its time by satirizing the behaviors and customs of the upper class. Through its focus on wit and dialogue, this genre highlights issues such as class distinctions, gender roles, and romantic entanglements, revealing the superficiality often present in high society. By portraying the follies and pretensions of its characters, it invites audiences to consider the underlying truths about their own social interactions.
• Discuss how playwrights like William Congreve utilized comedy of manners to critique societal norms.
  • William Congreve utilized comedy of manners as a tool to critique societal norms by crafting characters who epitomize the vices and follies of his contemporary upper class. His plays often featured sharp dialogues that exposed hypocrisy, particularly regarding romantic relationships and social conventions. Through humor and satire, Congreve effectively called attention to the absurdities inherent in courtship rituals and class aspirations, encouraging audiences to question the values upheld by society.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of comedy of manners on modern theatrical works and contemporary social commentary.
  • The lasting impact of comedy of manners on modern theatrical works is evident in its influence on contemporary comedies that explore similar themes of social behavior and personal relationships. Today's playwrights continue to employ witty dialogue and character-driven plots to critique current societal norms, reflecting ongoing issues related to class and gender. The genre's ability to merge humor with insightful commentary ensures its relevance persists, as it encourages audiences to examine both historical context and current realities in human interactions.

Related terms

Restoration Comedy: A style of comedy that emerged in England after the Restoration of Charles II in 1660, known for its witty dialogue, sexual innuendo, and exploration of social mores.

Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock societal norms, individuals, or institutions.

Wit: The ability to use words and ideas in a clever, humorous way, often characterized by sharpness and quickness in thought.