Marriage à la mode

Definition

Marriage à la mode refers to a genre of Restoration comedy that focuses on the marriage arrangements of the upper class, often showcasing the satirical aspects of love, money, and social status. This term highlights the contrast between genuine emotional connections and the more transactional nature of aristocratic unions during the Restoration period, as characters navigate societal expectations and personal desires.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The term 'marriage à la mode' was popularized by William Congreve's play 'The Way of the World,' which exemplifies themes of love versus societal expectations.
2. Restoration comedies often featured plots revolving around arranged marriages, with characters scheming to manipulate circumstances for personal gain or romantic interest.
3. The genre critiques the institution of marriage by highlighting its financial motivations rather than emotional bonds, reflecting societal views of the time.
4. Visual representations of marriage à la mode often included art pieces depicting aristocratic weddings, showcasing fashion and status symbols typical of the era.
5. The success of marriage à la mode plays contributed to a shift in audience expectations, leading to a greater demand for wit and humor in theatrical productions.

Review Questions

• How does marriage à la mode reflect the social dynamics and class structures of its time?
  • Marriage à la mode illustrates the complex interplay between social status and personal relationships in Restoration England. The plays often depict arranged marriages where financial considerations outweigh romantic feelings. This highlights the rigid class structures and societal pressures that dictated personal choices, revealing how individuals navigated their desires within the constraints of their social standing.
• Discuss the role of satire in marriage à la mode plays and how it critiques traditional notions of marriage.
  • Satire plays a crucial role in marriage à la mode by exposing the absurdities and contradictions within aristocratic marriages. These plays critique traditional notions of love by portraying marriages as transactions rather than unions based on affection. Through humor and exaggerated characters, the satire challenges societal norms, encouraging audiences to question the validity and morality of arranged unions in their contemporary context.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of marriage à la mode on modern interpretations of romantic relationships in literature and theater.
  • Marriage à la mode has had a significant influence on contemporary portrayals of romantic relationships by introducing themes of irony and social critique. Modern literature and theater often explore similar tensions between love and societal expectations, echoing the satirical elements found in Restoration comedies. This legacy encourages ongoing discussions about the authenticity of relationships in a world where social status still plays a role, making it relevant to modern audiences seeking depth in character motivations and relational dynamics.

Related terms

Restoration Comedy: A theatrical genre that emerged in England after the Restoration of Charles II in 1660, characterized by witty dialogue, sexual intrigue, and an exploration of societal norms.

Social Satire: A literary device used to criticize and mock societal customs, values, and institutions, often through humor and exaggeration.

Commedia dell'arte: An Italian theatrical form that influenced Restoration comedy, featuring stock characters and improvisation, emphasizing humor and social commentary.