Colley Cibber

Definition

Colley Cibber was an influential English playwright, actor, and poet during the Restoration and early 18th century, known for his contributions to the evolution of comedy. His work exemplified a shift from the more libertine themes of Restoration comedy to a style that emphasized sentimentality and moral lessons, paving the way for sentimental comedy. Cibber's plays often featured characters that were more relatable and virtuous, reflecting changing societal values during his time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cibber served as the Poet Laureate of England from 1730 to 1757, further cementing his reputation in the literary world.
2. His play 'Love's Last Shift' is one of his most notable works and is often credited with bridging the gap between Restoration and sentimental comedy.
3. Cibber's portrayal of characters was designed to evoke sympathy and convey moral lessons, steering away from the more hedonistic characters typical of earlier comedies.
4. He was also a prominent actor and director, significantly influencing theatrical practices in London during his career.
5. Cibber's work faced criticism for being overly sentimental, as he navigated the delicate balance between comedy and morality during a time of shifting audience expectations.

Review Questions

• How did Colley Cibber's works contribute to the transition from Restoration comedy to sentimental comedy?
  • Colley Cibber's works marked a significant shift in theatrical themes from the risqué and libertine nature of Restoration comedy to a more moral and sentimental approach. His plays began to emphasize relatable characters and emotional depth, aligning with the evolving tastes of audiences who preferred narratives that offered moral lessons. Cibber's influence helped establish sentimental comedy as a distinct genre that focused on virtue and emotional connections, laying groundwork for future playwrights.
• Analyze how Colley Cibber's portrayal of characters reflects the changing societal values of his time.
  • Cibber's characterizations demonstrated a move towards depicting virtuous and sympathetic figures that resonated with audiences looking for relatable morality in their entertainment. His shift away from caricatures associated with Restoration comedy indicated a societal desire for deeper emotional engagement and reflection on personal virtue. This change mirrored broader societal trends that favored sentimentality over libertinism, revealing how theater adapted to reflect contemporary moral values.
• Evaluate the impact of Colley Cibber's theatrical practices on the development of English drama in the 18th century.
  • Colley Cibber significantly shaped English drama through both his writings and his directorial practices, helping to mold the transition into new comedic forms like sentimental comedy. His ability to blend performance with poignant storytelling influenced how plays were structured and presented, encouraging a focus on emotional resonance alongside entertainment. Furthermore, his role as Poet Laureate allowed him to champion specific themes and styles within public performance, leaving a lasting legacy on 18th-century theater that paved the way for future dramatists.

Related terms

Restoration Comedy:

A style of comedy that emerged after the restoration of the monarchy in 1660, characterized by its satirical exploration of love, sex, and social manners.

Sentimental Comedy: A genre of comedy that became popular in the early 18th century, focusing on emotional appeal and moral messages rather than purely comedic elements.

Theatrical Licensing Act: An act passed in 1737 that imposed censorship on theatrical performances in England, affecting the content of plays, including those by Cibber.