Restoration Comedy

Definition

Restoration Comedy refers to a genre of English theatrical comedy that emerged in the late 17th century during the Restoration period, which followed the English Civil War and the return of Charles II to the throne. Characterized by its witty dialogue, sexual intrigue, and satire of contemporary society, this genre often focused on themes of love, marriage, and social class. Restoration Comedies typically featured strong, complex characters and utilized a style that combined farce with sophisticated humor.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Restoration Comedy is notable for its focus on the lives of the upper classes, often critiquing their moral standards and behaviors.
2. Women playwrights began to emerge during this period, with figures like Aphra Behn becoming prominent for their contributions to the genre.
3. The humor in Restoration Comedies often relied on sexual innuendos and misunderstandings, reflecting the more liberated social attitudes of the time.
4. These comedies frequently included stock characters such as the witty maid, the foolish husband, and the seductive coquette.
5. The genre paved the way for later comedic forms, influencing playwrights like George Bernard Shaw and Oscar Wilde.

Review Questions

• How did Restoration Comedy reflect the social attitudes and norms of its time?
  • Restoration Comedy mirrored the shifting social attitudes post-English Civil War, particularly regarding sexual freedom and class structures. The return of Charles II brought about a more liberated culture that embraced wit and scandalous behavior. These plays often poked fun at the upper classes while simultaneously revealing their follies and vices, providing a window into the changing dynamics of society during the Restoration period.
• In what ways did female playwrights contribute to Restoration Comedy, and what impact did they have on the genre?
  • Female playwrights like Aphra Behn played a significant role in shaping Restoration Comedy by bringing fresh perspectives to themes such as gender roles and sexuality. Their works often challenged societal norms by creating strong female characters who navigated romantic entanglements with wit and intelligence. This not only enriched the genre but also paved the way for future generations of women in theater, marking a pivotal shift in both comedy and women's representation in literature.
• Evaluate how Restoration Comedy has influenced modern comedic genres and its relevance today.
  • Restoration Comedy has had a lasting influence on modern comedic genres by establishing key conventions such as witty dialogue, complex characters, and satire of social norms. Its focus on romantic entanglements and misunderstandings can be seen in contemporary romantic comedies and sitcoms. The legacy of this genre persists in how it challenges societal expectations through humor, making it relevant today as audiences continue to appreciate sharp wit combined with social commentary.

Related terms

Theatrical Satire: A form of comedy that uses humor and exaggeration to criticize and mock societal norms and political issues.

Farce: A comic dramatic work that uses improbable situations, exaggerated characters, and slapstick humor to entertain the audience.

Heroic Drama: A serious dramatic genre that emerged in the late 17th century, often characterized by grand themes of honor, love, and conflict, contrasting with the lightheartedness of Restoration Comedy.