Comedy of manners

Definition

Comedy of manners is a genre of comedy that satirizes the behaviors, customs, and social mores of a particular class, often the upper class, highlighting their pretensions and moral shortcomings. This genre emerged during a time when professional theatre was becoming more prominent, and it often relied on witty dialogue, intricate plots, and the use of stock characters to expose the absurdities of high society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Comedy of manners became popular in England during the late 17th century with playwrights like William Congreve and Richard Brinsley Sheridan leading the way.
2. These plays often featured complex love plots that exposed the hypocritical nature of societal conventions and the characters' moral failings.
3. The genre typically includes elements such as witty repartee, misunderstandings, and a focus on romantic entanglements among the upper class.
4. The settings of comedy of manners plays are often drawn from contemporary society, making them relatable to audiences while simultaneously critiquing their values.
5. Molière is credited with laying the groundwork for this genre in France through his own comedies that dissected societal norms and behaviors.

Review Questions

• How did comedy of manners reflect the societal changes occurring with the rise of professional theatre companies in England?
  • Comedy of manners reflected societal changes by using humor to critique the behaviors and morals of the rising middle and upper classes. As professional theatre companies gained popularity, these plays provided a platform for playwrights to comment on contemporary issues while entertaining audiences. The genre's focus on witty dialogue and social satire aligned well with the increasing sophistication of theatre-goers who sought not just entertainment but also insights into their own social dynamics.
• Discuss the role of the Globe Theatre and other notable playhouses in popularizing comedy of manners during its development.
  • The Globe Theatre and other notable playhouses played a crucial role in popularizing comedy of manners by providing a venue for its performances. The architecture and design of these theatres facilitated audience engagement with the characters and plots, which were rich in wit and social commentary. As these venues attracted diverse audiences from various social strata, they allowed for an exchange of ideas about class distinctions and societal behaviors, making comedy of manners both relevant and entertaining.
• Evaluate how Molière’s works contributed to the evolution of comedy of manners and influenced subsequent playwrights across Europe, particularly after the reopening of theatres under Charles II.
  • Molière's works significantly contributed to the evolution of comedy of manners by employing sharp wit and keen observation to dissect the pretensions of French society. His ability to create complex characters who mirrored societal flaws laid a foundation for future European playwrights. After the reopening of theatres under Charles II, Molière's influence spread widely as British playwrights adopted similar techniques in their own comedies. This exchange enriched theatrical traditions across Europe, blending Molière’s insights into character and society with local customs to create vibrant comedic works that resonated with audiences everywhere.

Related terms

Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock social norms, politics, or individuals.

Stock Characters: Conventional characters that represent specific traits or stereotypes in literature and theatre, often used in comedic settings.

Wit: The ability to use words and ideas in a quick and inventive way, particularly in humorous contexts.