The School for Scandal

Definition

The School for Scandal is a comedic play written by Richard Brinsley Sheridan in 1777, which critiques the moral hypocrisy of high society through its portrayal of scandal and gossip. The play is a prime example of Restoration comedy, blending wit and social commentary while paving the way for the emergence of sentimental comedy, highlighting themes such as reputation, deception, and the complexities of human relationships.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The School for Scandal features a sharp critique of the upper classes, showcasing how rumors can tarnish reputations and reveal true character.
2. Sheridan uses various characters in the play to embody different aspects of societal hypocrisy, making it both a humorous and thought-provoking work.
3. The play's structure includes a series of misunderstandings and deceptions that ultimately lead to revelations about the characters' true natures.
4. The character of Lady Teazle serves as a central figure who embodies the conflict between personal desires and societal expectations.
5. The School for Scandal was well-received in its time and has influenced later works in both comedic and dramatic literature by exploring themes of morality and social critique.

Review Questions

• How does The School for Scandal reflect the characteristics of Restoration comedy while also signaling a shift towards sentimental themes?
  • The School for Scandal retains many elements typical of Restoration comedy, such as sharp wit and social satire focused on the upper classes. However, it also introduces sentimental themes by highlighting the emotional consequences of gossip and scandal on personal relationships. The interplay between humor and moral lessons illustrates this transition, as characters navigate their flaws in a society obsessed with reputation.
• In what ways does Sheridan use character development to critique societal values in The School for Scandal?
  • Sheridan crafts his characters to serve as embodiments of societal vices, particularly hypocrisy and deception. Characters like Lady Teazle initially present a façade of sophistication but reveal deeper conflicts between their true selves and societal expectations. Through their development, Sheridan critiques how superficial values govern social interactions and highlights the destructive power of gossip within high society.
• Evaluate the impact of The School for Scandal on later comedic forms and its relevance to contemporary discussions about morality and reputation.
  • The School for Scandal had a lasting impact on comedic literature by merging humor with serious social critique, influencing future works that explore similar themes. Its examination of morality amidst the chaos of reputation remains relevant today, particularly in our digital age where gossip can spread rapidly through social media. The play encourages reflection on how societal pressures shape individual behavior and prompts audiences to consider the implications of their own interactions within their communities.

Related terms

Restoration Comedy: A genre of English comedy that emerged in the late 17th century, characterized by its focus on wit, sexual intrigue, and social manners, often reflecting the values and excesses of the Restoration period.

Sentimental Comedy: A genre that developed in the 18th century as a reaction against the cynicism of Restoration comedy, emphasizing moral lessons and emotional responses, often portraying virtuous characters facing trials.

Gossip: The act of sharing rumors or personal information about others, often depicted in literature and drama as a means of character development and social critique.