A Bold Stroke for a Wife is a comedic play written by George Farquhar in 1706, centered around themes of love, marriage, and deception. The play showcases the cleverness of women during a time when their roles were largely limited, and reflects the changing attitudes towards marriage and gender relations in the early 18th century. It highlights the tension between social expectations and individual desires, as characters navigate the complexities of romance and societal norms.
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The play was first performed in 1706 and is known for its lively characters and humorous situations, particularly involving mistaken identities and romantic entanglements.
A Bold Stroke for a Wife presents a strong female protagonist who uses her wit and intelligence to navigate societal constraints, showcasing women's agency in a male-dominated society.
The play critiques the institution of marriage by exposing the often transactional nature of relationships during the Restoration period, where love was secondary to financial considerations.
Farquhar's work reflects the growing emphasis on individual choice and romantic love as important factors in marriage, which contrasted with earlier societal norms.
The comedic elements of the play serve to highlight serious themes about gender dynamics and social change, making it an important commentary on the evolving role of women in society.
Review Questions
How does 'A Bold Stroke for a Wife' reflect the shifting gender roles during the Restoration period?
'A Bold Stroke for a Wife' reflects shifting gender roles by presenting a female protagonist who defies traditional expectations. Instead of being passive or submissive, she actively pursues her desires and manipulates situations to achieve her goals. This portrayal challenges the typical portrayal of women in literature of the time, showcasing a growing recognition of women's intelligence and capability in navigating social dynamics.
In what ways does the play critique the institution of marriage in its portrayal of relationships?
'A Bold Stroke for a Wife' critiques marriage by illustrating how it often functions as a social contract rather than a union based on love. Characters frequently engage in manipulative tactics to secure advantageous matches, revealing that financial considerations often overshadow genuine affection. This commentary highlights how societal pressures shape personal relationships, prompting audiences to question the value placed on marital bonds during that era.
Analyze how 'A Bold Stroke for a Wife' utilizes comedy to address serious themes regarding women’s agency and societal norms.
'A Bold Stroke for a Wife' uses comedy as a vehicle to explore serious themes like women's agency and societal constraints. Through humor and farcical situations, Farquhar addresses the limitations imposed on women while simultaneously celebrating their cleverness. The comedic elements not only entertain but also invite audiences to reflect on the absurdities of social expectations, ultimately advocating for greater autonomy and recognition of women's roles within both personal relationships and society at large.
A genre of English comedy that emerged during the Restoration period, characterized by witty dialogue, sexual innuendo, and the exploration of romantic relationships and social conventions.
The societal expectations and norms dictating how individuals should behave based on their gender, which were undergoing significant changes during the Restoration period.
Marriage Market: The social system in which individuals, particularly women, sought advantageous marriages to secure their social status and financial security.