‘The Way of the World’ as a Restoration Comedy of the 17th Century

The Way of the World

William Congreve

Q. ‘The Way of the World’ as a Restoration Comedy of the 17th Century

Answer: In the History of English Literature, the Restoration Period is typically marked by the rulers of England. In this period England was a well-known colonial power in the world.

This was the time of materialism and trade and the people of that time emphasized money, pleasure and sex. The value of love and marriage were brought in exchange for money. Artificiality and immortality were the defining characteristics of the age. People looked for rest and happiness and serious things were less important to them.

Congreve’s play, The Way of the World throws light on the love, sex, marriage and in short, the behavior of the people of that time regarding these issues.

The primary types of gambler, pops, gallants, and wit are dealt with in a language that is outwardly bright but lacks philosophical and emotional or psychological depth. This makes the play an ideal Restoration Comedy of Manners. The dynamic mood is ironic and satirical which is in tune with the social realities of the time.

During the restoration period, there were retirement money classes. Sexual pleasure and the pursuit of money were the main subjects of human beings.

Marriage was not only chosen as an institution to provide fertility or stability in social life. It was seen as a machinery enterprise.

There are characters, in the play, The Way of the World, who were involved in sexually explicit and obscene jokes. Humor and wit are the main elements of this play. The characters represent many aspects of the society of that time and especially the aristocracy.

Mirabell is an intelligent and manipulator. He uses language in a very funny way. The clever use of language makes his speech bright on the surface but there is no psychological depth beneath it. He pretends to love Lady Wishfort so that he can get closer to Millament. His eyes are on his destiny. Love and marriage are driven by the desire for material gain.

Fainall, the play's villain, intended to lay hands on the fate of Lady Wishfort. He married Mrs. Fainall because his love for her was true but he took it as a hired venture.

Millament is a common restoration coquette and Mirabell, a typical suitor. Petualant and Witwood are the common fops of the restoration drama. They are more concerned with clothing and appearance than anything else.

The use of intellect is a significant aspect of restoration comedy. The characters use language very tricky and clever way.

The use of wit basically refers to a quick reply when the answer is related to a sharp return to speech. Towards the end of the 17th century, the use of wit was a sharp weapon, which would be used to entertain the intelligent enough to follow the exchange.

Speaking to Mrs. Fainall, Mirabell gave a wise example when commenting on early 18th century marriages. He says,

‘The Way of the World’ as a Restoration Comedy of the 17th Century

However, the whole plot of the play revolves around adultery, marriage and fate. As we watch the plot unfold the characters express themselves through their pursuits and behaviors. The way they behave makes laughter inevitable. By this William Congreve is mocking the behavior of the people of the English society at that time. Thus it has become an ideal restoration comedy of the 17th century.

*****

👉 Dickens's Hard Times as a Social Novel

👉 Goblin Market - Short Questions and Answers (2 Marks)