William Wycherley

Definition

William Wycherley was an English playwright and poet, best known for his role in the development of Restoration comedy during the late 17th century. His works are characterized by sharp wit, social satire, and a focus on the complexities of love and relationships, often highlighting the follies and vices of contemporary society. Wycherley's plays, especially 'The Country Wife' and 'The Plain Dealer', helped to define the style and themes of Restoration theatre, which emphasized realism and a more candid exploration of sexual relationships compared to earlier dramatic traditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wycherley was born in 1640 and became one of the most influential playwrights of the Restoration period, writing several notable plays that are still performed today.
2. His work is often noted for its candid portrayal of sexual relationships, which was bold for its time and contributed to shifting social attitudes regarding sexuality.
3. Wycherley's plays frequently critique the hypocrisy of societal norms and the behavior of the aristocracy, making them both entertaining and socially relevant.
4. His writing style is marked by a sophisticated use of language, featuring witty banter and double entendres that reflect his sharp intelligence.
5. Wycherley retired from playwriting in the early 18th century but left a lasting legacy on English theatre through his influence on both contemporaries and future generations of playwrights.

Review Questions

• How did William Wycherley contribute to the development of Restoration comedy, and what are some defining characteristics of his plays?
  • William Wycherley played a significant role in shaping Restoration comedy through his sharp wit and satirical examination of society. His plays often featured clever dialogue and intricate plots that highlighted the complexities of romantic relationships. Key characteristics include a focus on sexual politics, social commentary, and a departure from traditional moral themes found in earlier dramas. His most notable works like 'The Country Wife' exemplify these traits, blending humor with critique.
• Discuss the significance of 'The Country Wife' within Wycherley's oeuvre and its impact on Restoration theatre.
  • 'The Country Wife' is one of William Wycherley's most famous plays and serves as a quintessential example of Restoration comedy. The play's clever manipulation of social norms regarding marriage and fidelity showcases Wycherley's sharp comedic style. Its themes resonate with audiences even today, making it a timeless reflection on human relationships. The success of this play not only solidified Wycherley's reputation as a leading playwright but also influenced subsequent works in the genre by encouraging more open discussions about sexuality and morality.
• Evaluate how Wycherley's use of satire in his plays reflects the cultural attitudes of his time and how it connects to broader themes in Restoration literature.
  • William Wycherley's use of satire serves as a lens through which we can view the cultural attitudes of late 17th-century England. His critiques of the upper class's moral failings expose societal hypocrisy while reflecting a broader movement in Restoration literature towards realism and candidness about human nature. By tackling issues like infidelity, ambition, and societal pretenses with humor, Wycherley contributes to a growing literary trend that questioned traditional values. This connection highlights not only his impact on theatre but also offers insights into the changing dynamics within English society during the Restoration period.

Related terms

Restoration Comedy: A genre of English comedy that emerged in the late 17th century, characterized by its witty dialogue, complex plots, and focus on the manners and morals of the upper classes.

The Country Wife: A famous play by William Wycherley, considered one of the best examples of Restoration comedy, known for its clever wordplay and exploration of sexual politics.

Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals or societal norms, often found in Wycherley's works.