Captain Jack Absolute must navigate a web of deception and social posturing to win the hand of Lydia Languish, who is obsessed with the romantic ideals of sentimental novels. Jack adopts the persona of a poor ensign to court Lydia, only to find his efforts complicated by his father's attempts to arrange a marriage between them. The narrative unfolds through a series of farcical encounters, mistaken identities, and the volatile interference of eccentric supporting characters. As the primary antagonist, the hot-tempered Sir Lucius O'Trigger forces the conflict toward a climactic duel, testing the limits of the characters' pride and social standing.

Readers frequently highlight the enduring humor found in the play's sharp dialogue and the absurdity of its central romantic entanglements. Discussion often centers on the effectiveness of Sheridan's satire, particularly how he mocks the literary trends of his era through the character of Lydia Languish. Critics often point to the play's structural precision, noting that the farcical elements remain balanced by the clever characterization of the supporting cast. The work is widely regarded as a foundational example of the comedy of manners, with many noting that the linguistic humor remains accessible to modern audiences.