George Farquhar

Definition

George Farquhar was an Irish playwright and a significant figure in Restoration comedy, known for his sharp wit and lively characters. His works often combined elements of humor with deeper social commentary, reflecting the complexities of human nature and societal norms during the late 17th century. Farquhar's most famous plays, such as 'The Recruiting Officer' and 'The Beaux' Stratagem,' exemplify the characteristics of Restoration comedy, including intrigue, romance, and a focus on the upper classes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. George Farquhar's career flourished in the early 1700s, during which he wrote several successful plays that gained popularity for their engaging plots and relatable characters.
2. His play 'The Recruiting Officer' is celebrated for its humorous portrayal of military life and the follies of both soldiers and civilians, making it a staple in English theater.
3. 'The Beaux' Stratagem' is another notable work by Farquhar that blends romance with social critique, showcasing his ability to intertwine comedy with more serious themes.
4. Farquhar’s works often broke away from the rigid conventions of earlier comedies by incorporating more realistic characters and situations, thus appealing to contemporary audiences.
5. He is recognized as one of the last major figures of Restoration comedy before it began to decline in popularity, paving the way for future developments in English theater.

Review Questions

• How did George Farquhar's writing reflect the characteristics of Restoration comedy?
  • George Farquhar's writing reflected the characteristics of Restoration comedy through his use of sharp wit, engaging plots, and a focus on social interactions among the upper classes. His plays featured lively characters embroiled in romantic entanglements and social intrigue, all while critiquing societal norms. This combination of humor and social commentary allowed Farquhar to resonate with audiences who appreciated both entertainment and reflection on human behavior.
• Discuss the significance of 'The Beaux' Stratagem' in relation to Restoration comedic themes.
  • 'The Beaux' Stratagem' is significant as it encapsulates key themes of Restoration comedy, such as romantic deception, class dynamics, and moral ambiguity. In this play, Farquhar explores the complexities of love and marriage through witty dialogue and intricate plots. By portraying characters who navigate social expectations while pursuing personal desires, Farquhar highlights the tension between societal norms and individual aspirations typical of Restoration comedic narratives.
• Evaluate how George Farquhar's contributions to theater influenced subsequent developments in English comedy.
  • George Farquhar's contributions significantly influenced subsequent developments in English comedy by moving away from rigid formulas toward more nuanced portrayals of character and plot. His ability to blend humor with social critique set a precedent for later playwrights who sought to reflect real-life complexities in their works. Additionally, his realistic characters paved the way for future comedic styles that emphasized character-driven narratives over purely situational humor, shaping the evolution of comedic literature into the 18th century and beyond.

Related terms

Restoration Comedy: A genre of English comedy that emerged after the Restoration of Charles II in 1660, characterized by its satirical take on societal norms, sexual politics, and witty dialogue.

Comedy of Manners: A sub-genre of Restoration comedy that focuses on the behaviors and relationships of the upper classes, often highlighting their pretensions and moral failings.

Samuel Pepys: A contemporary of Farquhar, Pepys was a famous diarist whose writings provide insight into the social and cultural life of Restoration England, including theatrical performances.