Author Description

A new edition of William Congreve's Restoration comedy play The Way of the World -- originally staged in 1700. The play is focused on two lovers -- Mirabell and Millamant -- who in order to marry must receive the blessing of Millamant's aunt, the Lady Wishfort. Lady Wishfort, however, has her own plans. William Congreve (1670-1729) was one of the foremost English playwrights of the Restoration period, known for his clever, satirical dialogue and influence on the comedy of manners style of that period. His best remembered works included The Way of the World, Love for Love, The Old Bachelor, and the Double-Dealer.