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Gowher Ahmad Naik, LPU Unit 18: Richard Sheridan: The School for Scandal—Introduction to the Author and the Text

Unit 18: Richard Sheridan: The School for Scandal— Notes

Introduction to the Author and the Text

CONTENTS
Objectives

Introduction

18.1 Richard Sheridan—Introduction
18.1.1 Biography

18.1.2 Work Experience

18.2 The School for Scandal—Introduction to the Text
18.2.1 A Real Comedy

18.2.2 Problem of Anti-semitism
18.2.3 Artificial in the Character’s Speech, Dress and Motivation

18.3 Summary
18.4 Keywords

18.5 Review Questions

18.6 Further Readings

Objectives

After studying this unit, you will be able to:
• Illustrate the biographical sketch of Richard Sheridan;
• Elaborate the literary works of Richard Sheridan;
• Explain that The School for Scandal is a real comedy;
• Illustrate that the problem of anti-semitism runs throughout the play;
• Describe that the play appears artificial in the character’s speech, dress and motivations;
• Discuss the nature of the drama.

Introduction

Sheridan, Richard Brinsley Butler, dramatist and politician, born in Dublin; educated at Harrow;
committed to literature, in 1773, settled down in London with his gifted young wife, Elizabeth
Linley, and scored his first success with the “Rivals” in 1775. Following it up with the over rated
“Duenna,” aided by his father-in-law became owner of Drury Lane Theatre, which somewhat lagged
till the production of his most brilliant satirical comedy, “The School for Scandal” (1777) and the
“Critic” set flowing the tide of prosperity. Turning his attention next to politics he entered Parliament

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