Epigram

Definition

An epigram is a brief, witty poem or saying that often conveys a clever or satirical message. In the context of Restoration Comedy, epigrams reflect the sharp social commentary and humor that characterize this theatrical style, often encapsulating complex ideas in just a few lines. Their concise nature makes them memorable and impactful, allowing playwrights to critique societal norms while entertaining the audience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Epigrams became popular during the Restoration period as playwrights sought to engage audiences with sharp, pointed dialogue.
2. Many Restoration comedies featured characters who employed epigrams to deliver social commentary, reflecting the era's fascination with wit and intelligence.
3. The brevity of epigrams allowed for rapid exchanges in dialogue, enhancing comedic timing and effectiveness in performances.
4. Epigrams often tackled themes of love, social status, and morality, which were central concerns in Restoration Comedy.
5. Notable playwrights like Oscar Wilde and John Dryden utilized epigrams to challenge societal norms and provoke thought among their audiences.

Review Questions

• How do epigrams function within the dialogue of Restoration comedies, and what impact do they have on character development?
  • Epigrams serve as a tool for characters to express sharp wit and critique societal norms in Restoration comedies. This clever use of language not only entertains the audience but also reveals the intelligence and social awareness of characters. Through their witty remarks, characters can establish themselves as either insightful commentators on society or as figures that embody its follies.
• Discuss the role of satire in Restoration comedies and how epigrams contribute to this satirical tone.
  • Satire is a defining feature of Restoration comedies, aiming to expose and criticize societal issues through humor. Epigrams contribute significantly to this tone by providing concise and biting observations that highlight the absurdities of social conventions. By integrating epigrams into their works, playwrights create a layer of commentary that allows audiences to reflect on contemporary life while being entertained.
• Evaluate how the use of epigrams in Restoration Comedy reflects broader cultural attitudes of the time towards social issues and personal relationships.
  • The use of epigrams in Restoration Comedy reflects a society that valued wit and intellect while grappling with evolving ideas about class, love, and morality. These short, impactful statements often reveal underlying tensions between societal expectations and individual desires. By analyzing these epigrams, we can see how they not only served comedic purposes but also acted as vehicles for deeper discussions about the changing cultural landscape of the Restoration period.

Related terms

Satire:

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

Wit: A form of intelligent humor characterized by the ability to make quick and inventive verbal expressions.

Quip: A clever or witty remark, often made in response to a situation or conversation.