Title: The School for Scandal
Author: Richard Brinsley Sheridan
First published May 8, 1777
91 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781420927153 (ISBN10: 1420927159)
Rating: 3.62
Overview
“The School for Scandal” by Richard Brinsley Sheridan is a timeless masterpiece that hilariously ridicules the societal norms of the London upper class in the late 1700s. With its witty humor and clever dialogue, this “comedy of manners” has become one of Sheridan’s most beloved works and a staple in English comedic drama.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to immerse yourself in the scandalous world of high society with this entertaining and thought-provoking play.
About the Author
Richard Brinsley Sheridan, a talented playwright and poet originally from Ireland, was not only the long-term owner of London’s Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, but also a member of the British House of Commons for over three decades. Throughout his political career, he represented Stafford, Westminster, and Ilchester.
His impressive legacy earned him a burial spot at Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey, a testament to the high regard in which he was held by his contemporaries. Some of his most notable works include The Rivals, The School for Scandal, and A Trip to Scarborough.
Editoral Review
The School for Scandal by Richard Brinsley Sheridan is a must-read classic for anyone interested in the drama genre. First published back in May 1777, the play remains relevant to this day, with its timeless themes of deceit, gossip, and societal expectations continuing to resonate with modern readers.
Sheridan was a renowned playwright, and his wit, satirical style, and intricate plots are evident in The School for Scandal. The play is set in the upper echelons of 18th-century London society, and it follows the lives of two brothers, Charles and Joseph Surface, who are opposite in their characters.
Charles is likable and generous, while Joseph is scheming and morally corrupt. The central conflict arises when their uncle, Sir Oliver, returns from the East Indies and disguises himself to discover which of his nephews is worthy of his inheritance.
Alongside this central plot are a myriad of subplots involving other members of London society, including Lady Sneerwell, the principal female character, who plots to ruin the reputations of others through the use of scandalous gossip. Sheridan’s writing style is sharp, witty, and often humorous, and he infuses his characters with depth and complexity.
The play is a scathing critique of London society’s upper class, exposing their hypocrisy and obsession with appearances. Through his characters, Sheridan points out how people often use gossip and rumor to manipulate one another and how appearances can be deceiving.
The School for Scandal is a masterwork of the drama genre, and it has stood the test of time as a classic of English theatre. It’s notable for its intricate plot, fast-paced dialogue, and complex characters.
Sheridan’s message about the dangers of living a life based on appearances and the importance of honesty and character still rings true today, making it a worthwhile read for those looking for an engaging, thought-provoking piece of literature. That said, the play can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the language and style of 18th-century drama, and some readers may struggle to keep up with the numerous subplots and characters.
Overall, though, the School for Scandal is a must-read for anyone interested in the theatre and literary culture of the 18th century. In conclusion, The School for Scandal is a delightful read, written with intelligence, style and acuity.
It is highly recommended for anyone interested in classic theatre and for those who enjoy sharp dialogue and social critique. The book provides a fascinating insight into the life and times of Sheridan and the society in which he lived, and it remains relevant and engaging to readers today.
I would give this remarkable classic a deserving four out of five stars.
