Restoration Comedy

Definition

Restoration Comedy refers to a genre of English drama that emerged in the late 17th century following the restoration of Charles II to the throne in 1660. This form of comedy is characterized by its witty dialogue, satirical examination of social norms, and focus on themes of love, marriage, and class. Restoration Comedies often featured strong, independent characters and explored the complexities of human relationships in a society adjusting to new cultural freedoms after years of Puritan rule.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Restoration Comedy often involved elaborate plots filled with misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and clever wordplay.
2. Many plays from this genre were performed in newly built theaters, which allowed for more elaborate staging and design compared to previous periods.
3. Notable playwrights include George Etherege, William Wycherley, and Aphra Behn, who was one of the first female playwrights in England.
4. The genre reflects a shift toward more secular themes and a celebration of individual desires over traditional moral constraints.
5. Restoration Comedies frequently featured complex female characters who challenged societal expectations, representing a significant evolution in the portrayal of women in literature.

Review Questions

• How did Restoration Comedy reflect the social changes occurring in England during the late 17th century?
  • Restoration Comedy mirrored the social changes in England by addressing themes like love, marriage, and class with a new sense of freedom following the strict Puritan rule. With the restoration of Charles II, there was a resurgence of interest in theatrical performance and a departure from rigid moral standards. The comedies showcased characters navigating complex relationships and societal expectations, reflecting the dynamic cultural landscape of the time.
• Analyze how Restoration Comedy utilizes satire to comment on societal norms and relationships.
  • Restoration Comedy employs satire as a critical tool to highlight the absurdities and hypocrisies within societal norms and relationships. Through sharp wit and humorous situations, these plays expose flaws in traditional views on marriage and class distinctions. By using exaggerated characters and situations, playwrights could challenge audiences' perceptions and provoke thought about the roles individuals play within society.
• Evaluate the impact of notable playwrights like Aphra Behn on the development of Restoration Comedy and its themes.
  • Aphra Behn's contributions significantly shaped Restoration Comedy by introducing complex female protagonists who defied societal norms. Her work demonstrated a shift toward recognizing women's desires and agency in relationships. This evolution not only enriched the comedic landscape but also set a precedent for future female writers. Behn's plays exemplified the blend of wit and social commentary characteristic of Restoration Comedy, influencing how themes of gender and power were addressed in literature moving forward.

Related terms

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

Heroic Tragedy: A dramatic genre that was popular during the same period, characterized by noble characters facing significant moral dilemmas, often leading to their downfall.

Theater of the Absurd: A post-World War II dramatic genre that highlights the absurdity of human existence, contrasting with the more structured plots of Restoration Comedy.